The shortest total eclipse of the moon this century will be visible from the Portland area -- weather-permitting -- early Saturday morning.



Jim Todd, OMSI's director of space science education, said the total eclipse will last less than five minutes.

According to the Eclipse Wise website, the entire moon barely makes it into the earth's shadow, making it a very short total eclipse.

The eclipse will begin at 2:03 a.m. when the earth's shadow darkens a small, left edge of the moon. For the following 74 minutes, Todd said, partial phase darkness will move across the moon. The greatest eclipse point occurs at 4:58 a.m. and lasts until 5:02 a.m.

During those 4 1/2 minutes or so, Todd said, rather than the familiar red to copper-colored hue, the moon will take on a pinkish tone.



Todd said OMSI and Rose City Astronomers will a host a lunar eclipse viewing party from 2 to 7 a.m. at Milo McIver State Park, 24101 South Entrance Road in Estacada. The event is free, but there is a $5 charge per vehicle at the park.





Those with clear skies early on April 4th get to witness a total lunar eclipse. But it's only barely total, as the moon's northern limb just manages to slip completely inside earth's umbral shadow. So the northern half of its disk should look especially bright during totality.

"Unlike solar eclipses in which the sun's rays can damage the eyes, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye," Todd said. "Lunar eclipses are unique in that no one can predict what color the moon will turn during totality. Binoculars and telescopes will enhance the view."



Rose City Astronomers and representatives from Oregon State Parks will set up telescopes to allow the public optimum viewing of the event. Todd will also be on hand to give informal talks and answer questions.



Just how visible the eclipse will be depends on cloud cover. Saturday morning's forecast is calling for a slight chance of rain under mostly cloudy skies.

Todd said anyone planning to attend the eclipse viewing should check OMSI Star Parties website for possible weather-related cancellations. Warm clothes, a red light flashlight and binoculars and telescopes are welcome.

-- Stuart Tomlinson

stomlinson@oregonian.com

503-221-8313

@ORweather