Transcript for Early Risers in the West Experience a 'Blood Moon'

And if you happen to be awake really early this morning in the western part of the country, maybe you saw this amazing sight right here. Behind me, the early stages of a rare total eclipse of the moon. ABC's Gloria Riviera with these amazing images and the explanation. Reporter: An incredible sight. Watch as the moon sweeps across the Los Angeles skyline this morning. That moon turning so-called blood red and then, as if Hollywood magic, back to white as the city awakes. Here rising over the tops of trees in the early hours. It was nearly a blip for total eclipses, lasting just 4 minutes and 43 seconds. Most occur for more than an hour, making this eclipse the shortest of the century. Those on the U.S. West coast to Australia able to see it all. And unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse requires no eye protection. And why so red? Wavelengths of light, red being the longest, are filtered through the Earth's atmosphere momentarily painting the moon in deep hues of color for all of us to see. Those who were lucky enough to see this rare eclipse in awe. Spectacular! Incredible! And don't worry, if you missed it, the last one of this year is expected September 28th. Gloria Riviera, ABC news, Washington.

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