Partial lunar eclipse to tint moon copper at dawn Friday

A partial lunar eclipse will be visible across Spain at dawn on Friday, with 93% of the Moon's disk hidden by Earth's shadow, making it nearly total. The maximum is expected at 06:12 peninsular time, and the event can be viewed with the naked eye, without filters or special eye protection, according to the Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN) Source: La Vanguardia.

Viewing tips

Astronomer Gilles Bergond of the Calar Alto Observatory recommends getting up early—around 5 a.m.—to find a suitable spot, as the eclipse will occur with the Moon increasingly close to the horizon Source: Infobae. He advises seeking a location with a clear western horizon and minimal light pollution, rather than relying on telescopes or sophisticated equipment Source: La Vanguardia.

Why the Moon turns copper

During the eclipse, Earth blocks direct sunlight, but some light passes through the atmosphere and reaches the lunar surface, giving the eclipsed area a coppery or orange hue. Bergond notes that the Moon's appearance is linked to Earth's atmosphere Source: La Vanguardia.

Both sources agree on the key facts, including the timing and visibility across Spain. No significant disagreements were reported.