Lunar eclipse 2018: space expert says thunderstorms could obscure view

The lunar eclipse should be visible from 9.21pm (BST) in Britain on Friday but thunderstorms set to batter the UK are threatening to hamper the view. Space journalist Sarah Cruddas told Sky

News that those in the east of the country could have an obscured view of the eerie “blood moon”. To get the best view of the “blood moon” it is recommended to be in a place with no light

pollution, such as the countryside or green open spaces. Ms Cruddas said: “It is going to be around ten to nine depending on whether we get those showers and the position of the showers and

heavy thundery storms. “Some people will miss it. But if you have got a break in the sky it’s easy to spot the moon. It will be in the south easterly direction travelling westward across the

sky and you’ll see it turn this red sky. “It is dependent on the weather, as is so much of the astronomy but fingers crossed some people in some parts of the country should be able to see

this. “And, if not, this information is often available on the internet.” She added: “All you need to do if you haven’t got thunderstorms is just look up at the night sky after ten to nine

and you’ll see this moon begin to change this dark red colour.” The lunar eclipse will be the longest “blood moon” of the 21st Century on Friday, lasting for an epic one hour and 43 minutes.

When asked why the lunar eclipse will last for such a long time, Ms Cruddas said: “It’s all to do with the positioning of the sun and the moon so it changes ever so slightly from year on

out so this is why it’s the longest one this year. “We will get another one next century but in terms of this century this is the longest one we are going to see.” Not only is Britain in for

a “blood moon” on Friday but at the same time Mars will reach its nearest point to earth in its journey around the sun. Ms Cruddas said planets do not twinkle so space enthusiasts should be

able to spot the planet among stars.