Bay Area skywatchers will have to look close to see the partial lunar eclipse on Tuesday.

California’s coast is on the very edge of the viewing range, and the moon will just be rising when the eclipse begins.

The eastern part of the continent will get a slightly better look as part of the full moon — this month’s is known as the harvest moon — is obscured by shadow.

In the Bay Area, the moon will rise around 7:15 p.m., just as the sun is setting. For many viewers, it will take a few more minutes for the moon to clear the eastern hills.

The eclipse starts around 7:13 p.m. and peaks at 7:44. It will appear as a darkening at the upper left edge of the moon. At that point, the Bay Area will still be in the “nautical twilight” phase of dusk, not quite dark.

All of North America will be in much better position for viewing of a full lunar eclipse — a “blood moon” — on March 14, 2025.

Originally Published:

Source: www.mercurynews.com