KATHMANDU, July 27: The total lunar eclipse, the longest of the century with the duration of one hour 43 minutes and 35 seconds, will be seen on Friday night, according to Nepal Calendar Fixation Committee.
As stated by committee member-secretary Surya Prasad Dhungel, the moon passing into the earth's shadow at 12:09 as per the local time will be visible from almost all parts of the world.
Performance of religious activities such as hawan, chanting mantra, sadhana and donation have been recommended for people by the Hindu tradition during the eclipse. Likewise, bath taking before and after the occurrence of eclipse has been religiously suggested for the Hindu followers.
Prepare for the longest lunar eclipse of the century, coming up...
The Hindu mythology has put restrictions on some activities during certain time before and during the eclipse. Consumption of food, sleep, physical relations and toileting have been forbidden during the eclipse. However, aged people, children and the sick are free from these religious obligations.
The lunar eclipse is observed when the sun, earth and moon are perfectly lined up with the earth blocking the sunlight from reaching the moon. It occurs only on a full moon day. The Committee has recommended Aries, Leo, Scorpio and Pieces from seeing the eclipse.
The moon will be totally covered by the eclipse at 1:15 am, turning into a deep red in color which is called a blood red or coppery moon. The eclipse will end at 4:04 am (Saturday morning).
In the context of Nepal, the eclipse will be visible from the areas with clear weather.
However, the scientific argument is different. According to the Nepal Astronomical Society, a spectacular sight of the Friday's eclipse will be a golden opportunity and amazing experiences for those having interests in astrology and space science. Anyone wishing to witness this rare celestial phenomenon can do it by open eyes without any fear of being harmed. RSS
