Southern California residents have a celestial show heading their way this week, as Griffith Observatory prepares to host a public viewing for a lunar eclipse on Thursday, August 27. The Observatory describes the event as "practically total," noting that approximately 96 percent of the full moon will darken, transforming it into a coppery red hue.
The eclipse is set to begin around 7:18 pm, with its peak visibility, when 96 percent of the moon is obscured, occurring by 9:13 pm. This is an event that doesn't require specialized equipment; lunar eclipses are safe to observe directly with the naked eye. Given favorable sky conditions, the coppery red moon should be visible across the entirety of Southern California, offering a widespread opportunity for residents to witness the spectacle.
For those eager to experience the eclipse at its "most magnificent" and share the moment with fellow sky-gazers, the Griffith Observatory’s grounds will be open for public viewing from 7:25 pm to 11 pm. The main Observatory building will officially close its doors at 10 pm, but visitors will still have access to the grounds and restrooms until 11 pm, allowing for an extended period to take in the event. This official public viewing presents a chance to witness an astronomical phenomenon from a prime location.
However, making your way to the Observatory that evening will require careful planning. Los Angeles is L.A., after all, and logistics are always part of the event experience. Parking is expected to be complicated due to a Greek Theatre show scheduled for the same night, adding to the usual challenges of visiting the popular landmark. For those considering public transport, the DASH Observatory/Los Feliz bus will be running from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station. However, the last bus departs the Observatory at 11 pm, so anyone relying on public transit should plan their departure well in advance to avoid being left without a ride down the hill.
If the thought of navigating the traffic and parking situation up Mount Hollywood isn't appealing, or if you prefer a more comfortable viewing experience, Griffith Observatory will also provide a live stream of the eclipse. The broadcast is scheduled to run from 7:25 pm until 12:05 am, offering a virtual window to the cosmos from the comfort of your home, weather permitting.
This particular lunar eclipse holds extra significance for Southern Californians: the next total lunar eclipse visible from Los Angeles isn't projected to occur until 2029. Whether you choose to head to the Observatory, catch the live stream, or simply look southeast from your window, this Thursday offers a unique chance for the universe to put on a rare show.
