Residents of Nigeria and several other West African countries will witness a rare celestial spectacle on Sunday, September 7, as a total lunar eclipse lights up the night sky from 8:00 PM West Africa Time.
According to the National Television Authority (NTA), the eclipse will begin at around 8:00 PM West Africa Time and last for approximately 83 minutes, during which the Moon will take on a dramatic reddish hue—popularly called a “blood moon.”
Scientists confirmed that the event will be visible across many African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, Chad, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
For most parts of Nigeria, however, residents will be able to witness the full phenomenon. Experts have reassured the public that the eclipse is completely safe to watch with the naked eye and requires no special equipment.
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A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth, Sun, and Moon align perfectly, with Earth casting its shadow across the Moon. During this alignment, sunlight bends through the Earth’s atmosphere, scattering shorter wavelengths and allowing red hues to illuminate the Moon.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) noted that Sunday’s event will not only be visible across Africa but also in parts of Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective eyewear, this lunar eclipse is risk-free for observers. Skywatchers across Nigeria and West Africa are encouraged to step outdoors and witness what promises to be a breathtaking celestial show.