It was a cold, clear night for the winter solstice last night, and we were treated to a beautiful sunset with a moonrise over the impoundment. The temperature dropped quickly, as it does here in the winter. We decided to get a good look at the almost full moon, and then catch a few hours before getting up for the eclipse.
The eclipse began before 2:00, but we didn’t get up until about 2:15. We spread blankets on the rooftop deck and listened to the ocean and the occasional disgruntled heron in the marsh. Some of us watched for more time than others (the action was described as like watching paint dry, it was so slow.) The moon eventually turned a rich red, and we watched the shadow gradually retreat. Occasional meteors appeared as shooting stars.
As with many astronomical events, this one was rather spectacular due to the lack of light pollution on the island. The last time a lunar eclipse happened on the winter solstice was in 1638. The Washington Post predicted that the next time will be in 2094.
Washington Post: Lunar Eclipse falls on Winter Solstice.
Earthsky.org: December 21 Winter Solstice
I have observed an eclipse of the moon but not on the winter solstice and NOT in 1638!
Thanks for sharing.