Chandra Grahan 2024: Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts can look forward to a fascinating celestial event this month with the upcoming Chandra Grahan, or lunar eclipse, scheduled for September 18, 2024. This will be the second lunar eclipse of the year.
While this astronomical spectacle will be visible in many parts of the world, it will not be observable in India, as the Moon will be below the horizon during the eclipse. Consequently, Indian viewers will miss out on this partial lunar eclipse. Nonetheless, the event carries significant religious and cultural importance for many across the country.
The lunar eclipse will unfold on September 18, following Indian Standard Time (IST). Key timings for the eclipse phases are as follows:
Chandra Grahan timings
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 06:11 AM
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 07:42 AM
- Maximum Eclipse: 08:14 AM
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 08:45 AM
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 10:17 AM
What happens when Chandra Grahan takes place?
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth aligns between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. Depending on the alignment, the eclipse can partially or fully obscure the Moon. During a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the Moon is covered by Earth’s shadow, often giving it a reddish tint. According to NASA, during a partial lunar eclipse, “the shadow of the Earth grows and then recedes without ever entirely covering the Moon.”
Visibility in India
The Chandra Grahan will not be visible in India as the Moon will be below the horizon throughout the event. Despite this, the eclipse remains of great interest due to its religious and cultural implications.
Religious and Astrological Significance
In Hindu tradition, Chandra Grahans are viewed as inauspicious. Although India will not witness the eclipse directly, customary measures and precautions are observed. This eclipse coincides with Bhadrapada Purnima and the first Shraddh of Pitru Paksha, adding to its religious significance.
Clarification on the Eclipse Date
While the eclipse itself occurs on September 18, some might confuse this with the start of the sutak kaal on September 17. It is important to note that the religious observances related to the eclipse begin a day earlier, but the actual eclipse will take place on September 18.
