COLORADO SPRINGS – In less than one week, Colorado Springs residents will have a unique opportunity.
On Sunday, January 20th, for about 60 minutes, the moon will turn a blood red color and Earth will experience a total lunar eclipse.
Just for locals, the United States Air Force Academy invites everyone to join them starting at 7 p.m.
Participants will view a short film explaining eclipses and phases of the moon inside the newly renovated planetarium. After the film, USAFA’s observatory director Dr. Devin Della-Rose will talk about the lunar eclipse and answer any questions.
Afterward, the real show begins.
Participants will venture outside to watch the eclipse with their naked eyes and have a chance to see the moon up close through telescopes.
Staring straight at the moon is unlike watching a solar eclipse, which can be dangerous if you are not using protective eyewear.
“It’s always safe to look at the moon,” Della-Rose said.
The viewing is completely free and no reservations are required. Visitors can enter through the North Gate starting at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday and park outside the planetarium. No one is allowed to stay on the grounds past 10:30 p.m.
Researchers say the next full lunar eclipse will not grace the Earth’s sky until May 2021.
