Lunar eclipse feared to trigger Mayon eruption

MANILA, Philippines–A total lunar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, Oct. 8, a phenomenon authorities warn may trigger an eruption of restive Mayon volcano.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), however, did not change the Alert Level 3 status, which has been in effect since Sept. 15.

Alert Level 3 means a “hazardous eruption is possible within weeks.”

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) explained that a full moon during a lunar eclipse would exert stronger gravitational pull on the underlying magma within the volcano, which may trigger an eruption.

During the total lunar eclipse, the sun, earth and moon will be aligned exactly, with the earth positioned directy between the sun and moon.

The eclipse will be visible in the Philippines, as it will also be seen in Asia, the Americas and Australasia.

Pagasa said the lunar eclipse would begin at 4:14 p.m. Philippine standard time, and end at 9:35 p.m.

By 6:25 p.m., the moon will be completely covered by the earth’s shadow and this will last until 7:24 p.m.

Pagasa said the peak of the eclipse would be at 6:54 p.m.

Lunar eclipses are safe to watch without need of protective filters for the eyes, Pagasa said.

It suggested that binoculars would help magnify the view and make the red color of the moon brighter.