There Will Be A Rare 'Thunder Moon Eclipse' This Weekend In Florida

The Fourth of July will bring more than fireworks this year. The stars will align this weekend in the Sunshine State when two astronomical events collide. On Saturday night, a partial lunar eclipse will coincide with the July 2020 full moon to create a rare Thunder Moon eclipse. This dreamy celestial occurrence will last just a few hours and will captivate stargazers across Florida. 

This eclipse will take place this holiday weekend on the night of Saturday, July 4, and the morning of Sunday, July 5. You can best view this lunar event away from artificial lights, although it may be even more beautiful when framed by fireworks. 

The July full moon has many names inspired by both man and nature. One of these nicknames is the Thunder Moon, which was inspired by the month's large number of storms. It is also called the Buck Moon or Hay Moon.

A penumbral lunar eclipse will occur in conjunction with the full moon. This eclipse will be subtle and enchanting. Grab a beach chair and watch closely as part of the moon fades. The night sky never fails to deliver something magical. 

As summer storms brew in the sweltering Florida heat, you may witness this Thunder Moon live up to its name. If you're lucky, you could get a dramatic view of the moon above billowing storm clouds and even hear thunder. It's safest to view from indoors if there is a storm brewing. 

The show isn't over once you've seen the fireworks on the fourth. Later this month, you can watch a "natural firework show;" take a glimpse as shooting stars zoom across the sky. Make a wish on one of these comets as they fly by — it couldn't hurt. 

Look up this weekend, and you may see more than you expected on Independence Day. How often do you get to see a full moon lunar eclipse? Break out your telescope or binoculars for enhanced views.