Central lunar eclipse to grace the sky tonight

SHAH ALAM - A central lunar eclipse is anticipated to take place worldwide tonight from 4.02pm pm until 9.56pm (local time).

The central lunar eclipse or 'blood moon' is expected to happen when the Earth’s shadow completely covers the moon.

The Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa) however said that the phenomenon would only be seen in Malaysia as the moon begins to rise.

“The phenomenon could not be seen in Malaysia at the beginning of the penumbra and partial eclipse phase because it occurs when the moon is below the horizon.

“People in Malaysia have the opportunity to witness the phenomenon when the moon begins to rise in the eastern horizon when it starts to experience a full eclipse phase for the residents of Sabah and Sarawak while for most areas in the Peninsula, the phenomenon only begins to be seen during the maximum eclipse phase until the penumbra eclipse phase ends at 9.56pm.

“Observers are advised to be in areas free of obstructions, such as high ground or beaches facing east,” the agency said in a statement.

During the phenomenon, Selangor Mufti Department urged Muslims to perform the lunar eclipse prayer