The Moongazers

The second lunar eclipse of the year happened at a very appropriate time when the Bees were still awake and could gaze at the moon with Hubby and I. After viewing the first lunar eclipse of 2011 in awe and fascination, we naturally wanted the Bees to observe the second celestial phenomenon with us. 

So, at 9.45pm on 10 December, I peeped out of our balcony, saw the full moon eclipse commencing, whooped in excitement - much to the surprise of the rest of the family, and proceeded to get Hubby and the kids out to view the lunar eclipse. 

We spent a good 45 minutes observing the devouring of the moon by earth's shadow. The kids were a little spooked at first, seeing the moon disappear little by little. Hubby and I took the opportunity to explain the science behind this rare event, and emphasized that there will not be another lunar eclipse until 2014! 

We gazed at the clear, aphotic sky and admired the ponderous but steady progress of the eclipse. We could even detect glimmers of dim constellations just beside the moon at that hour - I believe it was the Big Dipper, I am not certain! We pointed out the differences between stars and planets, as gazed upon by the naked eye, and this was certainly a great continuation of our previous homelearning theme of Solar System! 

By 10.30pm, Little Bee was almost nodding off, plus the full moon was in a state of total eclipse. We scrutinized the exceptional rusty-red glow of the full moon in total eclipse, and we explained the reasons behind this amazing occurrence to the Bees. Thereafter, we called it a night and headed back to our home. 

We were definitely blessed by clear skies and the optimal position of the moon that lovely night!