Total Lunar Eclipse Attracts Stargazers Nationwide

[Lite Beer]

Total lunar eclipse attracts stargazers nationwide

BANGKOK, Dec 10 -- Thai people nationwide enjoyed witnessing a total lunar eclipse that lasted for 51 minutes as skies were clear on Saturday.

The eclipse started at 7.46pm when the moon entered the Earth's penumbra and began passing the umbra at 9.06pm.

The total eclipse reached its maximum phase at 9.06pm, lasting for 51 minutes before the moon passed through Earth's umbra at 9.56pm.

Thai people across the country, including Bangkokians, could clearly witness the phenomenon as skies were clear.

In the northern province of Chiang mai, local residents and tourists gathered at Royal Park Rajapruek to witness the lunar eclipse through large telescopes provided by the National Astronomical Research Institute, while some attended a traditional lunar eclipse prayer at a temple in the city.

In the resort island of Phuket, foreign tourists also took part in observing the total lunar eclipse, which coincided with Thailand's Constitution Day. (MCOT online news)

-- TNA 2011-12-11

[billd766]

I watched a lot of it last night with my family up near the Mae Wong national park.

A beautiful clear night with not many lights on and it was spectacular.

The first one I have seen in ages.

[elgato]

Why are they called "Stargazers" if they're looking at a MOON?

It was pretty cool to this old moongazer

[Gers1873]

Sat by the pool with my son and totally enjoyed the experience on a beautiful clear evening. :ots of stars visible and the whole experience calling out for a telescope. Perhaps for the next one in 2014.

Only minor orritant was the peace quiet and darkness being shattered be people letting off fireworks.

[tombkk]

Sat by the pool with my son and totally enjoyed the experience on a beautiful clear evening. :ots of stars visible and the whole experience calling out for a telescope. Perhaps for the next one in 2014.

Only minor orritant was the peace quiet and darkness being shattered be people letting off fireworks.

I was told the fireworks are a traditional thing, so that the shadow over the moons disappears. Sorry that Thai tradition irritates you.

[Scott]

Beautiful site and lovely cool night.

[Tropicalevo]

Beautiful site and lovely cool night.

Agreed.

Some good photos by someone on the Samui forum

[soundman]

Watched the first phase of the eclipse last night with friends. Not something you get to see too often.

And watched a "re-enactment" of local superstitions......

Taking a "meed ito" (meat cleaver) and (pretending) to hack up everything that will bring you prosperity in the future; such as your purse, cash register, pretty trees around the garden.

This was followed by a few people discharging firearms, mingled in with numerous fireworks, which went on for about five minutes.

Anyway, a pleasant evening.

[bigbamboo]

Yep, got a good view here just outside the city in Chiang Mai. Unusual to see the Thai people so into astronomy. Astrology is more their thing. BTW, according to the fortune tellers this could be the sign of good luck to come. They will tell how much when you pay them. Chok dee all round I guess!

Edited December 11, 2011 by bigbamboo

[norwayeagle]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiByRticoAQ stargazer Dream Theaters version

stargazer by stefano hehe naghiero

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTrwo2F0amU&feature=related stargazer by DIO

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJeBvNuYPMM&feature=related stargazer by Rainbow,Cozy Powell at drums,Dio