A total lunar eclipse will take place on May 15th, 2022. In simple words, the moon will disappear completely for a short period of time as it passes through the shadow of the Earth. During a total lunar eclipse, the moon turns red or blood-red in color. This is because of the refraction of light by Earth’s atmosphere. 

This month's full moon is a "super moon," meaning it looks bigger and brighter than usual because it's at the closest point to Earth in its orbit. The 'flower' part just comes from the May full moon's spring-themed nickname. 

 

The total lunar eclipse will take place on May 15, 2021. This event will be visible in most parts of the world. 

• Eastern U.S.: "The visible part of the eclipse begins about 10:30 p.m. EDT Sunday, with totality starting an hour later and lasting for about an hour and a half. Those in the Eastern U.S. will see the eclipse start with the Moon well above the horizon." Totality starts at about 11:30 p.m. EDT.
• Central U.S.: "The eclipse starts about an hour and a half after dark (9:30 p.m. CDT), with the Moon relatively low in the sky." Totality starts at about 10:30 p.m. CDT.
• West Coast: "The Moon rises with totality beginning or already underway, so you'll want to find a clear view toward the southeast if viewing from there." Totality starts at about 8:30 p.m. PDT.

Why is a total lunar eclipse significant?

A total lunar eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when the Moon passes through the Earth’s shadow. This is a very rare event and occurs once in 2-3 years. During a total lunar eclipse, the moon disappears from the sky as it passes through Earth’s shadow and can turn reddish in color.

This is because of the refraction of light by Earth’s atmosphere and is quite a spectacular sight. The total lunar eclipse is a very significant event because it is expected to take place very close to the date predicted for the end of the Mayan Calendar.

Why does the moon turn red?

NASA says it's the same reason the sky is blue: Rayleigh scattering. Thanks to its longer wavelength, red light travels more directly through the atmosphere than blue light. The sun produces both wavelengths, but blue light is only visible from Earth's surface when the sun is overhead.

During a lunar eclipse, blue light scatters in Earth's atmosphere and only red light reaches the moon. It looks even redder if Earth's atmosphere has a lot of light-blocking dust and clouds. 

To celebrate the Super Flower Blood Moon we've launched a special Lunar Eclipse Asterism Bracelet. This lovely link chain bracelet features a Lunar Eclipse pendant surrounded by tiny sparkles that resemble the stars overhead. Keeping true to its name asterism which refers to a cluster of stars in the night sky, its twinkling crystals focus the eye on the Lunar Eclipse phase allowing you to keep this moon moment close to you forever.