Local skywatchers hoping to catch one of the most impressive lunar eclipses visible from the United States in the next few years may need a little cooperation from the weather Thursday night.

A deep partial lunar eclipse will unfold overnight Aug. 27 into Aug. 28, with 96 percent of the Moon expected to slip into Earth’s dark inner shadow at the height of the event. The result could give most of the Moon a dusky orange or reddish appearance, with only a thin bright section remaining along one edge. The eclipse will be visible across much of the United States, according to Astronomy magazine. 

For local residents, however, clouds and rain could get in the way.

The forecast for Thursday night calls for mostly cloudy and humid conditions, with a low around 71 degrees. There is an 88 percent chance of precipitation and a 53 percent chance of thunderstorms, with approximately a quarter-inch of rain possible. Southerly winds around 8 mph could gust as high as 17 mph.

That does not necessarily mean residents should give up on seeing the eclipse. Because a lunar eclipse develops over several hours, even a temporary break in the clouds could provide an opportunity to catch part of the show.

The eclipse begins at 9:23 p.m. EDT Thursday as the Moon enters the lighter outer portion of Earth’s shadow. The more noticeable partial eclipse starts at 10:33 p.m., when the Moon begins entering Earth’s darker inner shadow. 

For anyone willing to stay up late, the best viewing opportunity comes just after midnight.

Maximum eclipse occurs at 12:13 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28. At that point, about 96 percent of the Moon will be covered by Earth’s inner shadow. The Moon reaches its official full phase just six minutes later at 12:19 a.m.

Unlike a solar eclipse, residents do not need special glasses or equipment to safely watch a lunar eclipse. If clouds break, simply stepping outside and looking toward the Moon will be enough. Binoculars can provide a closer look but are not necessary. 

The partial eclipse ends at 1:51 a.m., while the entire event concludes shortly before 3:02 a.m. 

With showers and thunderstorms possible, local residents may want to keep an eye on the sky and radar Thursday evening. Those who find a break in the clouds, particularly around midnight, could be rewarded with a rare view of a nearly red Full Moon.

Source: Astronomy magazine’s guide to the Aug. 27 lunar eclipse