The Next Lunar Eclipse Will Be Visible From Iowa And You Won’t Want To Miss Out

Iowa is known for having great dark sky sites out in the countryside, but this winter, Hawkeyes have a reason to keep their eyes on the skies. On January 20, 2019, there will be an Iowa lunar eclipse that will make history!

Iowans are in for a treat this January, when the skies grow dark and a rare celestial show takes over the sky: a Super Blood Wolf Moon.

Now, sure, that sounds like something you would hear about in a years-old e-mail forward from your great Aunt, but we can assure you that on January 20, 2018, a Super Blood Wolf Moon will rise in the Iowa Skies.

On January 20, 2019, Iowans everywhere can see a rare total lunar eclipse.

The moon will be in "Super Moon" stage, meaning it's a full moon that's as close to Earth as possible in orbit. When the earth's shadow eclipses this Super Moon, it casts a red hue on the surface - hence, Super Blood Moon. And Wolf Moon? Well, that just means it's the first full moon of the year. Combined, Super Blood Wolf Moon sounds like something straight out of a Marvel Comic.

This isn't a common phenomenon, and the next Total Lunar Eclipse won't happen until May 2021. Be sure to set your alarms for this!

You'll see the eclipse begin on Sunday, January 20 at 8:36 p.m., and it will be totally eclipsed by 11:12 p.m.. Keep an eye on the sky, as the shadow continues to move, and all returns to normal by Monday, January 21, at 1:48 a.m.. That's five hours of a lunar display!

While there are many places to see this Iowa Lunar Eclipse, for the best view, head far away from the cities. Find your favorite back road, set up a chair, and relax for a bit.

Of course, don't forget to bundle up! Iowa's winter nights can be brutal, and you'll want to be prepared with hand warmers and a thermos full of coffee or cocoa.

Are you planning to watch this Iowa lunar eclipse? Share your best photos of the phenomenon with us in our Iowa Nature Lovers group.