The Orange Coast College Planetarium invites members of the public to experience a total lunar eclipse via the College’s telescopes on Thursday, March 13.
Weather permitting, this lunar eclipse, also known as the “blood moon,” will be visible across the United States. The moon will be totally eclipsed for 67 minutes, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.
During the OCC Planetarium’s viewing event, telescopes will be available at the Planetarium’s Telescope Farm, allowing guest to get an up-close view of the Moon as it passes through Earth’s shadow, transforming into a deep red during totality. The full eclipse will start at 11:26 p.m. and end at 12:31 a.m. on Friday, March 14, providing a breathtaking sight for all who attend.
Throughout the night, knowledgeable faculty, staff and students from OCC’s astronomy department will be available to answer questions and provide insights about this celestial event. Guest may arrive starting at 10 p.m. on March 13, with the event concluding on Friday, March 14 at 1 a.m.
Two special shows will be presented inside the Mary Lynn Bergman-Rallis Dome Theater at 10:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. Attendance for these shows is on a first come, first served basis.
Parking for the event is free. Recommended parking is available in Lot E. RSVP for the Total Lunar Eclipse Viewing Event at OCC's University Tickets website.
What: Total Lunar Eclipse Viewing Event
When: Thursday, March 13, from 10 p.m. to Friday, March 14 at 1 a.m.
Where: Orange Coast College Planetarium
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
For questions, contact planetarium@cccd.edu or call (714) 714-7430.