Lunar eclipse on August 28: Why India won't see it
What's the story
On August 28, 2026, a major lunar event will unfold as the Moon passes through Earth's shadow. This deep partial lunar eclipse will see nearly 93% of the Moon's diameter covered by Earth's darkest shadow, or umbra. However, Indian skywatchers will miss this celestial spectacle as it occurs during daytime when the Moon is below the horizon for observers in India.
Eclipse details
A look at the eclipse phenomenon
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth comes between the Sun and Moon, blocking direct sunlight from reaching the latter.
This alignment will be very close on August 28.
The maximum eclipse will take place at 04:13 UTC, with some 96.3% of the Moon's disk inside the umbra. However, a bright sliver will remain outside this shadowy region.
Color change
Why will the Moon turn red during the eclipse?
During the peak of this deep partial lunar eclipse, the part of the Moon that enters Earth's shadow could turn a dark red, coppery hue.
This is due to some of the Sun's light being filtered and refracted by Earth's atmosphere.
The red and orange wavelengths are less scattered than blue wavelengths, allowing some reddish light to reach the lunar surface.
Global view
Where to watch the eclipse live?
The lunar eclipse will be visible from North and South America, with nearly a billion people having a front-row seat. Partial views will extend to parts of Europe, Africa, and West Asia.
The event will start at 6:53am IST on August 28 and end at 12:32pm IST. The maximum peak or when most of the Moon will be covered by Earth's shadow will be at 9:43am IST.