To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Where Brits can see rare Lunar Eclipse very soon

Where Brits can see rare Lunar Eclipse very soon

The rare cosmic phenomenon is set to grace the skies next week

Mark your calendars as there's a very exciting cosmic event happening next week.

The rare partial lunar eclipse phenomenon is set to grace our skies on Wednesday, 18 September.

Now, a partial lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the sun and the moon, but they are not perfectly aligned.

A partial lunar eclipse will grace our skies next Wednesday (Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images)
A partial lunar eclipse will grace our skies next Wednesday (Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images)

Because of this, only a portion of the moon passes through the Earth's central and darkest part of its shadow AKA the umbra.

The rest of the moon remains in the 'penumbra' which is the lighter outer part of the shadow, meaning it is still fully illuminated by the sun.

During a partial lunar eclipse, the shadowed part of the moon appears darkened, while the rest remains bright.

Differing from a total lunar eclipse, where the entire moon enters the Earth's umbra and often takes on a reddish colour, a partial eclipse only darkens part of the moon's surface, creating a pretty incredible visual contrast.

The maximum eclipse is set to appear at 03:44 am across the UK (Ray Wise / Getty Images)
The maximum eclipse is set to appear at 03:44 am across the UK (Ray Wise / Getty Images)

What time is the Lunar Eclipse?

Aside from knowing when the lunar eclipse will be, you also need to plan other things like travel, getting a good spot well in advance, and know how you’re going to get home.

Experts warn that you should aim to view the eclipse between 03:12 am and 04:15 am with the maximum eclipse appearing at 03:44 am across the UK.

Now, the eclipse will be visible around much of the UK and further afield so we've rounded up five locations were you'll have a shot at seeing the cosmic phenomenon.

So, without further ado, here's the top five spots near Belfast you can see the rare Lunar Eclipse very soon.

Experts warn that you should aim to view the eclipse between 03:12 am and 04:15 am (Carlos Manchego / 500px / Getty Images)
Experts warn that you should aim to view the eclipse between 03:12 am and 04:15 am (Carlos Manchego / 500px / Getty Images)

Divis and the Black Mountain, Belfast

Located just outside Belfast, this area offers panoramic views over the city and the western horizon.

It's also one of the highest points in the region which should help reduce the risk of obstructions.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, County Londonderry

The temple sits on a cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering unobstructed views to the west.

It's also a dark sky area, which reduces light pollution - a must when it comes to lunar eclipse sky-gazing!

Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

This iconic location not only offers stunning scenery but also excellent western views over the sea, making it perfect for eclipse viewing.

The Giants Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland (Stuart Stevenson photography / Getty Images)
The Giants Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland (Stuart Stevenson photography / Getty Images)

Gortin Glen, County Tyrone

Offering somewhat of a more remote location with high elevations, Gortin Glen offers wide, open views and is less likely to have light pollution.

Torr Head, County Antrim

This rugged coastal area offers unobstructed views over the western horizon and the super remote location also minimises light pollution.

Featured Image Credit: JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images/Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)

Topics: UK News, News, Life, Space, Astrology