One of the rarest lunar events to occur will be visible in the early morning hours of January 31, and the College of Southern Idaho's Observatory will be a prime spot for viewing.

The total eclipse of a Blue Moon hasn't occurred in over 150 years, according to Space.com.  An eclipse occurs when one celestial object passes through the shadow of another, resulting in a temporary blockage of light. The upcoming eclipse is special in that the moon will not only be full, but will also be at its closest point to Earth during its current orbit.

The only downside to the upcoming eclipse, is that the best time for Idahoans to view it will occur when the majority of us are sound asleep.

"Technically, the eclipse will occur at 3:51a.m., said Chris Anderson, CSI's observatory coordinator. "The observatory will be open from four-thirty to seven-thirty that morning for people to view."

Those wishing to view this extremely rare event from the telescope at CSI will be able to do so free of charge.

"Yea, it's free to the public, said Anderson. "We aren't expecting big crowds at that time of the morning."

 

 

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