Image Source: BBC
Lunar eclipses are preparing to put on another spectacular display, with skywatchers across the UK offered the chance to see the full Moon take on a deep reddish glow in the early hours of Friday, 28 August 2026.
The event will be a partial lunar eclipse, occurring when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up closely enough for part of the Moon to pass through Earth’s darkest shadow. The full Moon, traditionally known as the Sturgeon Moon, will be low in the south-western sky during the most dramatic stage.
Powerful lunar eclipses will peak before sunrise
According to BBC Weather, the partial eclipse will begin at 03:33 BST in London, when the Moon enters the umbra. The eclipse will reach its maximum at approximately 05:12 BST, with around 90% of the lunar surface within Earth’s darkest shadow.
The entire Moon will not disappear. Instead, most of its visible disc will be shaded while a remaining section stays illuminated by direct sunlight. The timing of the display means observers will need to be awake before dawn and find a clear view towards the south-west.
In London, the Moon is expected to set at roughly 06:15 BST, shortly after the eclipse reaches its peak. Exact moonset times will vary across the UK, depending on location and local horizons.
- Partial eclipse begins in London: 03:33 BST
- Maximum eclipse: 05:12 BST
- Approximate portion inside the umbra: 90%
- Moonset in London: about 06:15 BST
Why does the Moon turn red?
The famous red colour is caused by sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere. During the eclipse, the planet blocks most direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. However, some light bends through the atmosphere and continues towards the lunar surface.
Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter blue wavelengths more easily than longer red wavelengths. As a result, red and orange light are filtered through the atmosphere, reflected from the Moon and sent back towards observers on Earth.
This process can make the eclipsed Moon appear copper, orange or blood-red. The precise shade depends on conditions in Earth’s atmosphere, including the amount of dust, smoke and cloud present along the path of the light.
Surprising Moon illusion could make the event look bigger
The eclipse will take place when the Moon is close to the horizon, creating an additional visual effect known as the Moon illusion. This is when the Moon appears larger than usual because the brain compares it with familiar objects such as buildings, trees and hills.
The Moon itself does not physically grow larger during moonrise or moonset. Instead, its low position and surrounding landscape can make the lunar disc appear especially large and dramatic to the human eye.
Photographers may be able to enhance the effect by framing the Moon alongside landmarks or silhouettes. A tripod, a wide open view and a camera capable of manual focus could help capture the changing colours and shadow across the lunar surface.
Critical UK weather forecast for eclipse watchers
Clear skies will be essential for anyone hoping to see the display. BBC Weather currently expects conditions to vary significantly across the country during the early hours of Friday.
The best viewing prospects are forecast across central and eastern England and Wales. These areas may experience clearer skies, although cloud cover could change quickly from one hour to the next.
Showers and cloud are more likely to affect parts of Scotland. Other parts of the UK could also see periods of cloud or rain as low pressure influences the weather. The forecast may change before the event, so observers are advised to check the latest local conditions before heading outside.
How to watch the partial eclipse safely and comfortably
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse can be viewed with the naked eye without special protective equipment. Binoculars or a small telescope may reveal more detail in the Moon’s surface and the advancing shadow, but they are not essential.
- Choose a high location with an unobstructed south-western view.
- Check the latest hourly weather forecast before going outside.
- Dress warmly, as temperatures can fall sharply before sunrise.
- Use a tripod or stable surface for clearer photographs.
- Allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
The event comes only weeks after the UK witnessed its most dramatic partial solar eclipse in nearly 30 years, giving astronomy enthusiasts another opportunity to observe a rare celestial alignment.
Frequently asked questions about lunar eclipses
When is the UK lunar eclipse in August 2026?
The partial lunar eclipse will occur in the early hours of Friday, 28 August 2026. In London, the main eclipse begins at 03:33 BST and reaches its maximum at 05:12 BST.
Will the Moon turn completely red?
No. This is a partial eclipse, so only part of the Moon will enter Earth’s darkest shadow. The shaded section may appear reddish, while a smaller area remains brighter.
Where will the eclipse be easiest to see?
Central and eastern parts of England and Wales currently have the best prospects for clearer skies. Conditions may change, and Scotland is expected to see more showers in some areas.
Do I need special glasses to watch a lunar eclipse?
No special glasses are required for a lunar eclipse. The Moon can be viewed safely with the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope.
What is the Moon illusion?
The Moon illusion is a visual effect that makes the Moon appear larger when it is close to the horizon. Nearby buildings, trees and other familiar objects can make the effect more noticeable.
