World witnessed longest Lunar eclipse of the century

Skywatchers in many parts of the world witnessed the longest Lunar eclipse of the century last night. The eclipse lasted for one hour 43 minutes, and was visible in Europe, West Asia, Africa, Australia, most of Asia and South America. In India, it was visible in different parts amid cloudy night.

A total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth comes between the



Sun and the Moon, and covers the Moon with its shadow. When this happens, the Moon turns red or ruddy brown, which is why the phenomenon has earned the nickname, 'blood moon'.

In yet another celestial occurrence, Mars will be at its closest point to Earth since 2003 - visible as a bright red star where skies are clear.