Explanation: Did you need to sit on a particular side of the airplane to see this lunar eclipse? Not necessarily. Lunar eclipses are visible from much of the nighttime side of Earth whenever the Moon passes through Earth’s shadow. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse can be viewed safely with the naked eye, without special equipment.
Because the Moon is not dangerously bright during a lunar eclipse, photographers can also capture the event without pointing their cameras toward the Sun. This lunar eclipse photo was taken during a remarkable astronomical event from Portugal. If you were seated on the opposite side of the plane during takeoff, the eclipse might have been difficult to see at first. However, after takeoff, you may have had time to move across the aisle, since a lunar eclipse can remain visible for several hours.
Gallery: Lunar Eclipse in August 2026
NASA’s main site for APOD is: On the move: Visit apod.nasa.gov or go to science.nasa.gov/apod
Tomorrow’s photos: cultural eclipse
Source: science.nasa.gov