First lunar eclipse of 2021 took place on May 26, 2021. It was a super lunar event because supermoon, lunar eclipse and blood moon, all occurred at once.
Highlights
Eclipse was visible partially in India, at a few places in eastern part. It was well observed in Australia, United States, western South America, Pacific and South-East Asia. As per NASA, this lunar eclipse happened because of a series of celestial event.
What is a supermoon?
When full or new moon coincides with perigee of Moon to the Earth, super moon event occurs. It is called as super moon, because close proximity of moon makes it bigger and brighter in appearance than usual. Though, difference between super and normal moon is hard to notice.
What is lunar eclipse?
When Earth’s shadow covers all or part of moon, lunar eclipse event happens. This event only happens during full moon. Lunar eclipse happens twice a year during which, moon comes in same horizontal plane as the Earth and Sun.
What is a full moon?
When Moon and Sun are on opposite sides of Earth, full moon happens. This makes it possible to observe entire lit-up side of the moon.
What is a red moon?
When moon gets completely covered by Earth’s shadow, it appears dark. It does not get completely black but appears red. Because of this red colour, total lunar eclipses are called as red or blood moons.