SUPER BLOOD MOON: Times, weather forecast and everything else you need to know about rare astronomical event

In the early hours of Monday, the Moon will be unusually close to the Earth and look bigger and brighter than usual – it will be a Super Moon.

Then, the Earth will cross between the Sun and the Moon in a total lunar eclipse. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon turns a deep rusty red colour due to sunlight being scattered by the Earth’s atmosphere.

The result will be a Super Blood Moon.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare astronomical event...

When can I see it?

From the UK, the Moon will start to enter the Earth’s shadow at 1.10am on Monday. Set your alarms for about 3am and go outside or look out of your window as the Moon will be completely within the shadow from 3.11am to 4.24am. The eclipse ends when the Moon leaves the shadow at 6.24am.

Will I be able to see it in the East Midlands?

It’s looking good! According to the latest Met Office weather forecast for the East Midlands, there will be prolonged clear spells.

Is it worth all the fuss?

The phenomenon is well worth staying up for, according to leading amateur astronomer Robin Scagell. He said: “From a UK point of view, it’s happening at a most unsuitable time, but I would say it’s definitely worth setting the alarm for to look out and see this Super Red Moon hanging over the tree tops.”

Will I need any specialist equipment to view it?

No, you just need your eyes! It’ll look even more spectacular through binoculars, though.

When did this last happen and when will it occur again?

The last time a Super Moon and a total lunar eclipse shared the night sky was in 1982 and the event won’t be repeated until 2033.

I’ve read the Super Blood Moon could signal the start of the apocalypse. Is this true?

No.

If you take a picture of the Super Blood Moon, please email it along with your name and location to [email protected]