The upcoming lunar eclipse on May 5 will be visible across most of Russia, with two notable exceptions: Taimyr and Chukotka. In Moscow, observers should expect the Moon to sit very low above the horizon, which will challenge viewing conditions. This insight comes from the Moscow Planetarium’s press service, cited by TASS in their briefing to the public.
The phenomenon will unfold from 18:14 to 22:31 Moscow time, with the Moon positioned in the Libra constellation during this interval. At the peak of the event, scheduled for 20:23 Moscow time, the Moon will still be above the horizon over most regions of Russia. However, observers in the northwest will find the Moon still rising in twilight, while those in the far northeast will be at morning hours and may miss the moment of greatest eclipse. It is important to note that visibility will vary by location, and local weather will play a critical role in what skywatchers can actually see. This overview reflects the plan as reported by the Moscow Planetarium and corroborated by authorities monitoring astronomical events. (Source: Moscow Planetarium)
According to experts, the eclipse can be observed from any location where the Moon is above the horizon, provided the sky is clear and unobstructed. The event is classified as a penumbral lunar eclipse, meaning the outer part of Earth’s shadow darkens the Moon slightly rather than blocking it completely. As a result, the lunar disc dims a touch while still being illuminated by the Sun, and under good conditions this dimming should be detectable with the naked eye. (Source: Moscow Planetarium)
Lyudmila Koshman, head of the methodological support department at the Moscow Planetarium, explained that in Moscow the Moon will rise into partial shadow, which means that residents of the capital may not experience a pronounced eclipse tonight. Observers elsewhere in the city might catch a subtle shading as the Moon traverses Earth’s shadow, while clear skies will maximize the chances of perceiving the faint dimming. The local timing and altitude of the Moon will influence how easily the phenomenon is seen from different parts of the metropolis. (Source: Moscow Planetarium)
For context, a total solar eclipse is a distinctly different event. On April 20, the Moon completely covered the Sun, creating a dramatic black circle framed by a bright halo of light. This contrast underscores how eclipses come in several varieties, each with its own visual signature and timing. While the lunar penumbra produces a gentle dimming of the Moon, a solar eclipse can briefly turn day into night for observers on the right path of totality. (Source: Moscow Planetarium)