When and how Scots can see the upcoming total lunar eclipse
Scots have been treated to a series of significant night sky events this year - from the recent record-breaking Strawberry Moon to several sightings of the Northern Lights. But an upcoming total lunar eclipse is sure to blow these previous cosmic views out of the water.
A total lunar eclipse will be visible over the UK in just a few short weeks, on September 7, although it won't be visible for long. The Moon will turn a deep, dark red during this event that's certainly not one to miss.
With this in mind, we've rounded up everything you need to know about the coming eclipse, including when and how to spot this cosmic phenomenon.
What is a total lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth lies directly between the Sun and the Moon, and the Moon lies in the shadow of the Earth.
For a total lunar eclipse to occur, all three of these celestial bodies need to lie in a straight line. When this happens, the Moon passes through the darkest part of the Earth's shadow, which is called the umbra, according to Royal Museums Greenwich.
The Moon will turn red during a total lunar eclipse because it is illuminated by light that has passed through the Earth's atmosphere, and has then been bent back towards the Moon.
When is the next total lunar eclipse?
The next total lunar eclipse will occur in a few weeks on September 7, and it will be visible from the UK.
The Moon will rise above the horizon just in time for us to see it.
Its maximum will occur at 7.33pm BST from the UK, with the eclipse's actual maximum at 7.11pm when the Moon is below our horizon.
The Moon will then gradually move out of Earth's umbra until 9.55pm.
How can you spot the total lunar eclipse?
Because the Moon will be low on the horizon and quite difficult to see, a high point with a clear view to the East will be necessary to fully see the eclipse.
If you can't get up high, any areas with a clear horizon will be ideal to see this low-hanging moon and its eclipse.
There are several Scottish spots that are ideal for viewing the sky with a clear horizon.
Here are some of the best places to catch the lunar eclipse.
Beaches
A beach is one of the best places to go for an unobstructed horizon, and Scotland is home to many.
The best beach for stargazing, however, is Luskentyre Beach on the west coast of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. This beach's lack of light pollution has led to it being named one of the best in the whole of the UK for observing the wonders of the night sky.
For those on the mainland, almost any beach will be a great spot for catching the eclipse.
Plains
Perhaps harder to find in the rolling hills of Scotland, a grassy field or plain is another perfect choice of place for amateur stargazers to see the low-down lunar eclipse.
Large, flat areas of land are more commonly found in the lowlands of Scotland compared to the mountains of the Highlands. If you live nearby any farmland or wide open fields, you may be in proximity to a great viewing spot.
Mountains or hills
If you can't find any flat low land due to Scotland's vibrant landscape of rolling hills, you could consider climbing high enough that they won't obstruct the skyline. Scotland is home to countless hills, and some are particularly good for stargazing.
For those in proximity to Glasgow, Ballageich Hill is just 25 minutes away by car, and Conic Hill is a short climb near Balmaha that's around an hour away from the city.
However, if you're planning to climb a hill or mountain at night, it's vital to be well-equipped with good shoes, appropriate clothing, a torch (red-light torches are recommended to prevent disturbing wildlife) as well as a working phone in case of emergency.
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