On Friday, a partial lunar eclipse will be visible over Germany, but spotting this celestial event could be challenging. Here’s when and where your chances are highest – and why the end of March might offer a better opportunity for an extraordinary moment in the sky.
Viewing the partial lunar eclipse in Germany
Skywatchers will have the chance to observe a partial lunar eclipse on Friday morning – but only if the weather cooperates. According to Uwe Pilz, chairman of the Association of Star Friends based in Bensheim, southern Hesse, a total eclipse will not be visible in German-speaking regions. However, around 6:00 a.m., those with a clear view to the west may catch a glimpse of the Earth’s shadow on the setting full moon.
Where are the best chances to see it?
According to the German Weather Service (DWD) in Offenbach, visibility is expected to be limited. Current forecasts suggest that the sky will be heavily clouded in the south and southwest.
“In the north and northwest, there might be some breaks in the clouds,” said DWD meteorologist Sabine Krüger. “However, it’s uncertain whether these clearings will be enough to view the partial lunar eclipse.”
What time will the lunar eclipse occur?
A lunar eclipse happens when the full moon moves into Earth’s umbra (the planet’s central shadow). This time, the event begins at 4:56 a.m. (CET) when the moon enters the penumbral shadow. The eclipse will become more noticeable when the moon moves into the umbra at 6:09 a.m.
However, the moon will set shortly after:
- Hamburg – 6:43 a.m.
- Berlin – 6:29 a.m.
- Munich – 6:34 a.m.
This means the moon will disappear before the eclipse reaches its peak.
Better chance for a celestial spectacle in late March
For those disappointed by this event, there’s good news: a partial solar eclipse on March 29 will be much easier to see across Germany.
The exact timing and coverage of the sun will depend on your location:
- Hamburg: 11:25 a.m. – 1:09 p.m.
- Berlin: 11:32 a.m. – 1:08 p.m.
- Munich: 11:27 a.m. – 12:56 p.m.
If you missed the lunar eclipse, this might be the perfect opportunity to witness an impressive astronomical event!
