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Skywatchers Looking Forward to Complete Lunar Eclipse

by Associated Press

   DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES --

   Skywatchers around much of the world are looking forward to a complete
   lunar eclipse that will be the longest this century.

   The so-called "blood moon" Friday, when it turns a deep red, will be
   visible at different times in Australia, Africa, Asia, Europe and South
   America when the sun, Earth and moon line up perfectly, casting Earth's
   shadow on the moon.

   The total eclipse will last 1 hour and 43 minutes, with the entire
   event lasting closer to four hours.

   In a special treat, Mars is in opposition on Friday -- meaning the
   planet and the sun will be on exact opposite sides of the Earth and
   will shine its best. Mars is also at its closest approach to Earth this
   week since 2003, making it appear bigger and brighter.