Redlands, Ca – The San Bernardino County Museum’s “Cosmic Nights,” a partnership with the San Bernardino Valley Amateur Astronomers (SBVAA) takes place during the last total lunar eclipse of the decade on Sunday, Jan. 20 from 8 to 10 p.m. This will be the first total lunar eclipse visible in its entirety across the U.S. since 2010 and the last one until 2021. The evening features telescope viewing, and visitors are also encouraged to bring binoculars.
During a lunar eclipse the moon enters Earth’s shadow, and turns a reddish glow. The red hue is caused by sunlight scattering, like a sunset when it enters Earth’s atmosphere at a particular angle. In Redlands, the partial eclipse begins at 7:33 p.m., the total eclipse begins at 8:41 p.m., and the maximum eclipse will be at 9:12 p.m. and will end at 9:43 p.m.
The nicknames for the moon are not based in science, but in popular culture. “Super moon” is the name given to the moon during the time it is closest to the Earth when it appears about 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than when at apogee, or farthest point. “Blood Moon” describes the red color during an eclipse, and “Wolf Moon” is a name from Old Farmer’s Almanac for the January moon, which described wolves howling at the moon in hunger outside of villages.
The event takes place outdoors, weather permitting, and guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Museum galleries will be open during the event and regular admission applies. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance by visiting http://www.sbcounty.gov/museum.
The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the Museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture, and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors.
The San Bernardino County Museum is at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cosmic Nights is included in general admission: $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcounty.gov/museum. The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.
