The Moon does not have its own light, but shines because its surface reflects the Sun's rays. Eclipses of the Moon happen when the Sun, Earth and Moon are aligned to form an exact or an almost straight line. The technical term for this is syzygy, which comes from the Greek word for being paired together. The Earth blocks any direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. The Sun is behind the Earth, so the Sun's light casts the Earth's shadow on the Moon. This shadow covers the entire Moon and causes a Total Lunar Eclipse.
This is the second of four lunar eclipses occurring in 2016. In northern Virginia, the eclipse will begin about 9:30pm on May 15 and will achieve a maximum eclipse just after midnight (0011EDT) on May 16 If the weather cooperates, the eclipse will be fully visible throughout the region. If you have never observed a "blood moon" (when the moon takes on a deep red hue), here is your opportunity.
Come on out and celebrate the lunar eclipse with us. Everyone is welcome. Be sure to bring your appetite, your geocaching stories, and trackables to share.
Location: Firehouse Subs, 8097 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20109
Date: Monday, May 16, 2016
Time: 5:30pm to 8-ish.
If you think you will not arrive until after 7:00pm, please post this with your "Will Attend" log. Sometimes the group breaks up early. If we know you are coming late, we'll wait for you. Thanks.