Tomorrow's Total Lunar Eclipse

I have been looking forward to tomorrow's total lunar eclipse, but the forecast for the Chicago region is not looking good. It is clear at the moment, but we are still about 30 hours until totality. As we say in the region though, if you don't like the weather, wait 10 minutes: it will change. And change it most likely will. Snow is expected tomorrow night. If you have clear skies tomorrow, though, here are some things to look forward to for this eclipse.

Credit: Larry Koehn.

Check out Lisa Beightol's Astronomy video.

With the winter solstice occurring later in the afternoon Tuesday, this is the first winter solstice eclipse since 1638. During the eclipse, the Moon will also occult the asteroid 348 May. 

Predictions for Chicago area observers by Curt Renz.

Curt also informs us that an hour after the eclipse, the Moon will conjunct with open star cluster NGC 2129.

I am still uncertain where I will attempt to observe the eclipse from, but Adler Planetarium is hosting an eclipse viewing party, and I may wind up there.

Of course, there are citizen science projects collecting data. John Westfall is collecting naked eye contact times. There are also crater timing projects. However you observe tomorrow's events, enjoy the rarity of this solstice eclipse and hopefully we will all enjoy a clear sky. Good luck!

Quick weather update: snow is on the way.