Partial Blood Moon Eclipse to Appear August 27-28 Amid Apocalyptic Speculation
A deep partial lunar eclipse, known as a "blood moon," is set to occur overnight between August 27 and 28, 2020. At its peak, Earth's shadow will cover 96.2% of the moon's surface, casting a striking reddish hue over most of the visible lunar face. Although not a total eclipse, the phenomenon will create a dramatic visual effect familiar to astronomers and skywatchers.
The eclipse will begin globally with a faint shadow at 04:24 Israel time on Friday morning, with the partial eclipse phase starting at 05:34. The maximum eclipse will occur at 07:13, when the moon will be nearly fully covered by Earth's dark shadow. However, in Israel, the moon will set before the peak, around 06:14 in Tel Aviv and slightly earlier in Jerusalem, limiting local viewing of the most impressive phase. Better views will be available in North and South America, where the eclipse will be visible in its entirety.
The reddish color of the moon during the eclipse results from sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere, which scatters blue light and allows red and orange wavelengths to illuminate the moon. This effect is similar to the red hues seen during sunrises and sunsets.
Alongside scientific interest, the blood moon has reignited biblical and apocalyptic interpretations online. Some internet users cite verses from the Book of Joel, which describe the moon turning to blood before the "great and terrible day of the Lord," suggesting the eclipse may signal global upheaval or the end times. These interpretations have recurred with previous blood moons, including eclipses in March 2020, November 2022, and upcoming events in 2025. Scientists emphasize that these are natural, predictable astronomical events that have no proven connection to prophetic warnings.
The article highlights the recurring pattern of linking blood moons to biblical prophecy, noting that despite past fears, the world continues as usual after each eclipse.
