When was the last lunar eclipse in the USA? The most recent total lunar eclipse visible from the United States occurred on January 20, 2019. This celestial event was a spectacular sight for stargazers across the country, as it graced the night sky with a deep red hue, often referred to as a “blood moon.”
The 2019 lunar eclipse was a total eclipse, which means the Earth’s shadow completely covered the moon, resulting in a dramatic darkening of the lunar surface. This particular event was special because it was the first total lunar eclipse of the 21st century that was visible from North America. The previous total lunar eclipse from the USA was on August 21, 2017, a historic event that captivated millions of viewers as it became the first total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States in nearly 100 years.
Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon. This alignment happens only during a full moon, and it requires the three celestial bodies to be precisely aligned. The frequency of lunar eclipses varies, with total lunar eclipses occurring approximately every 2.5 years.
The 2019 blood moon was particularly notable because it was part of a tetrad, a series of four total lunar eclipses occurring within a span of 18 months. The previous tetrad took place in 2014-2015, and the next one is expected in 2024-2025. Tetrads are quite rare, and the 2019 event was a special treat for astronomy enthusiasts.
The last lunar eclipse before the 2019 event was on January 8, 2018, which was a partial lunar eclipse. It was visible from parts of North America, but not as spectacular as the total lunar eclipse that followed a year later.
As we look forward to the next total lunar eclipse in the USA, scheduled for May 16, 2022, we can expect another breathtaking celestial event that will remind us of the beauty and wonder of the night sky. Until then, we can cherish the memories of the blood moon and the excitement it brought to people across the nation.
