The last eclipse of 2011 is a total lunar eclipse that takes place early Saturday morning December 10th. This will be a very unusual total lunar eclipse because it takes place just before sunrise and will set in the west in totality. Last year we had a total lunar eclipse, but it was raining that night, but the weather is predicted to be clear, but very cold for this lunar eclipse.

Here is the timing of the event...Partial phases begin at 4:45a.m. Astronomical twilight begins at 5:22a.m. Totality begins at 6:06a.m. Greatest phase of eclipse at 6:31a.m.

Sunrise at 6:51a.m. Moon set at 6:55a.m. Totality ends at 6:57a.m.

Look for a good western horizon to view the setting of the moon in totality. If you want to try and photograph this event, it is best to use a long telephoto lens. Try frame the eclipsed moon with a palm or other large tree, or the edge of a mountain. Be imaginative and try to get a picture of this very unusual total lunar eclipse. Just imagine trying to take a picture of a giant orange-colored peach setting in the west. Or just go out, bring a blanket or bundle up and find a nice seat and look to where the sun usually sets and see a fantastic looking moon. The next one, for us, won’t happen until April 2014!

Carmelita Miranda, Dreamweaver Observatory