Sailing and Skywatching

Most people we know try to sleep in a bit on Saturday mornings. But if you’re into astronomical phenomena, you’ll want to bounce out of bed tomorrow at dawn or before to witness the total lunar eclipse, which should be visible over the western horizon. Weathermen predict skies will be clear.

If you’ve never witnessed the cycle of a lunar eclipse, we can tell you it’s a pretty awesome sight: Over a period of several hours, the moon appears darkened as it gradually passes into the earth’s shadow. In this case the partial eclipse will begin at 4:45 a.m., with the total eclipse taking place between 6:06 and 6:57. Sunrise tomorrow will be at 7:14, at which time the moon will still be partially eclipsed (until 8:14 a.m.).

After soaking in that heavenly lightshow, we suggest making the most of the day by getting out on the water to commune with nature by another means. Yes, it will be chilly, but if skies are clear and there’s even a little breeze, we think you’ll be glad you made the effort. Who knows, next weekend it could be stormy.