This Sunday, 7th September, the skies will put on a spectacular show as Nigeria joins several other nations in witnessing a rare lunar eclipse.
According to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the eclipse will last for about 83 minutes, beginning around 8 p.m. Nigerian time. For many stargazers, it promises to be a breathtaking evening.
Scientists say most parts of Africa will be able to view the eclipse, with some regions lucky enough to enjoy the full event. Countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, and Chad are all on the list. However, those in the far west may miss out on some phases, especially the penumbral or partial stages, depending on when the Moon rises.
Experts reassure the public that lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch without protective equipment. Unlike solar eclipses, you don’t need special glasses.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, with Earth sitting in the middle. This alignment casts Earth’s shadow directly on the Moon, giving it a mysterious, often reddish glow. For those lucky enough to watch, Sunday evening will be a reminder of the beauty and wonder of nature that unites people across borders.
