First lunar eclipse of 2024 to be observed on March 25

The world is about to witness the first penumbral lunar eclipse of the year 2024 on the night of March 25 and 26.

Penumbral lunar eclipse is a phenomenon that occurs when the moon is covered by Earth’s lighter or outermost shadow and is usually difficult to observe.

The lunar eclipse will be visible in America, some European countries, Australia, Africa, North and East Asia. 

However, Pakistanis and Indians won’t get the chance to witness the phenomenon.

Lunar eclipses occur when Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon and cast a shadow across the surface of the moon. They can only occur during a full moon and make for an interesting skywatching target.

It should be noted that there are three types of lunar eclipses depending on how the Sun, Earth and moon are aligned at the time of the event.

• Total lunar eclipse — Earth's shadow is cast across the entire lunar surface.
• Partial lunar eclipse — Only part of the moon enters Earth's shadow, which may look like it is taking a "bite" out of the lunar surface
• Penumbral lunar eclipse — the faint outer part of Earth's shadow is cast across the lunar surface