Nearly Total Lunar Eclipse in NJ Thursday Night

Step outside Thursday night as there's a nearly total lunar eclipse happening right above your head, and you don't need glasses or any special equipment to see it.

Starting at 10:33 PM, the Earth's shadow will begin creeping across the face of the moon in what astronomers are classifying as a partial lunar eclipse.

Technically speaking, 96.2% of the moon will fall into Earth's shadow at peak, which will take place right around midnight.

What you'll actually see is a moon that looks almost completely dark, with a dark reddish-orange glow and just a thin bright sliver on one edge.

And unlike the partial solar eclipse that swept through on August 12th, which South Jersey barely noticed at around 7% coverage, this one is worth staying up for (assuming the weather cooperates -- more on that in a moment).

Full moon over the beach in Ocean City, NJ - Photo: Chris Coleman

Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are always safe to watch with the naked eye. You don't need any special glasses or anything, just look up and enjoy.

As for the weather, unfortunately, it doesn't appear that Mother Nature will be cooperating. As of now, there is a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms under mostly cloudy skies. Hopefully, the forecast will improve over the next 48 hours.

August 27 Lunar Eclipse: What NJ Needs to Know

Eclipse begins: 10:33 PM
Maximum eclipse: Around midnight
After midnight: Moon begins emerging from Earth's shadow
Forecast: 50% chance of showers and storms

Next Eclipses

And if you want to plan, here are upcoming lunar eclipses that will be visible from New Jersey:

January 12, 2028: Partial lunar eclipse
June 26, 2029: Total lunar eclipse

As for the next total solar eclipse that's visible from New Jersey, mark your calendar for May 1st, 2079. That's about 53 years from now. Can you imagine what the Garden State will look like by then?

LOOK! Every solar eclipse to affect NJ through 2100

From partial to complete totality, here's a complete look at every upcoming solar eclipse affecting New Jersey throughout the 21st century, according to timeanddate.com. Peak times are approximate and will vary based on precise viewing location.

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

16 ways the weather can impact your Jersey Shore beach day

Gallery Credit: Dan Zarrow

Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com