Bhubaneswar: A total lunar eclipse, also known as Chandra Grahan or “Blood Moon,” is set to captivate the world on the night of September 7 and 8. This extraordinary event occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that transforms the lunar surface into a stunning red-orange display.
The lunar eclipse will be visible across most of the world, with nearly 85% of the global population able to witness at least part of the event. The totality phase, lasting 82 minutes, will offer a breathtaking spectacle for skywatchers. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses can be safely enjoyed with the naked eye, requiring no special protective gear.
Visibility and Timings:
The total lunar eclipse will be visible across country, with the following schedule in IST:
– Eclipse begins: 8:58 pm on September 7
– Totality (Blood Moon phase): 11 pm (September 7) to 12:22 am (September 8)
– Eclipse ends: 2:25 am (September 8)
Phases of the Total Lunar Eclipse:
– 8:58 pm (September 7): Penumbral eclipse begins
– 9:57 pm (September 7): Partial eclipse begins
– 11 pm (September 7): Total eclipse begins
– 11:41 pm (September 7): Maximum eclipse
– 12:22 am (September 8): Total eclipse ends
– 1:26 am (September 8): Partial eclipse ends
– 2:25 am (September 8): Penumbral eclipse ends
This rare celestial event promises to be a spectacular sight, with the Moon turning a deep red-orange hue during the totality phase. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the “Blood Moon” phenomenon!
Religious Belief, Rituals At Puri Jagannath Temple
According to religious belief, lunar eclipses are considered inauspicious, while astrologers say the phenomenon will affect all 12 zodiac signs and 27 constellations, bringing both favourable and challenging outcomes.
In Puri, the eclipse will also affect the rituals at Shree Jagannath Temple. Temple priests Padmanabha Tripathi and servitor Madhab Mahapatra confirmed that a series of special and simplified rituals have been scheduled to accommodate the cosmic occurrence.
As per the temple schedule, “Paka Tyaga” (cessation of cooking) and suspension of divine rituals will begin at 12:57:22 PM on September 7. The “Dwaraphita” ritual will take place at 2:00 AM on September 8, followed by cleansing, alati, and other rituals through the early morning hours. Several bhoga offerings, pujas, and alatis have been rescheduled, culminating in the “Grahan Mahasnan” (ritual bath) and “Grahan Bhoga” once the eclipse concludes.
