Worth seeing through a scope?

[Manok101]

I'm psyched about tonight's eclipse, I live in america and its supposed to be a prime spot to see it, and I was wondering if it was a worthy observing target tonight? Or should I use binocs, or just my eyes?

[mike.brightmore]

I prefer binoculars for lunar eclipses - so you can see the whole disc in the field of view.

[tuc]

You definitely should see it through your telescope. And your binoculars. And naked- eye. During totality, you won`t believe how small the moon looks (naked-eye) and there`s a really neat 3-D effect--you`ll know what I mean. Hope you can stay awake!

[Moonshane]

I agree - use everything available to you - I'd say you want the full disc in view though. quite jealous of you USA guys - our turn will come again soon! hope you all have clear skies!

[Manok101]

So far so good, I'm really excited. its not my first eclipse, but its my first one with a scope. Its been awhile, how long does it last as far as being in shadow?

[tuc]

Do you know what I mean then?

[LukeSkywatcher]

Bins are good but if you use a scope with say a 25-32mm EP it should be ok. Personally i would use bins to give you the "stereo" view.

Naked eye though is perhaps the best. You get the full effect without magnification.

Here in Ireland the whole thing (or part of) happens too early when it will be too cold to even bother. So i wont care about missing it even IF the snow clouds have gone.

Lunar eclipses really just dont excite me.

[rabbithutch]

Hello Manok,

Local TV station where I am says the peak will be from ~0130 to 0300.

[Moonshane]

It's about 'quarter phase' here in the UK at 7.23am but unfortunately just about to dip into a cloud bank and behind some houses!

[Manok101]

Grr clouds ruined it. I can't believe I'm finally in the area of an eclipse and can't see it but through random breaks in clouds. And I'm going to miss the best part.

[Casus belli]

I saw it in a very chilly aberdeen this morning at about 7.40 am. A very dark red moon just setting above snow covered roofs.

I wish I'd had my camera.