Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Get ready for a total lunar eclipse and supermoon, all wrapped into one, after a snow storm.
Tim Collins, a Kellogg Observatory Astronomer with the Buffalo Museum of Science said there are several time stamps to keep track of.
"The beginning of the eclipse is at 9:36pm. A partial eclipse begins at 10:33pm. The total eclipse where the moon begins to turn red is at 11:41pm," he said. It continues into the midnight hour. "The maximum eclipse is at 12:12am and the totality ends at 12:43am. Once again the partial eclipse will occur again and end at 1:50am and the official end of the eclipse is at 2:48am".
WBEN 7 First Alert Meteorologist Aaron Mentkowski says it will be a brutally cold night across Western New York, but skies should be clear in enough areas to allow for viewing.
What is a Super Wolf Blood Moon?
It is the first full moon in January. A full moon occurring when the distance between the Earth and moon is as short as possible. And it's occurring during a lunar eclipse.
Why is it called a wolf moon?
The first full moon in January is called a wolf moon. It's been speculated that when it was named a thousand years ago, there were wolves howling in the distance.
Why does the moon appear red?
During a lunar eclipse the only light the moon gets is reflected off of Earth and red light is cast onto the moon's surface.
It is a late night event for children, but it is doable with Monday being a federal holiday, and most schools are closed.
"We're hoping people can take their hot cocoa outside and enjoy the eclipse in their backyard," said Collins.
The good thing about this is that you don't need any special equipment.
The next total lunar eclipse won't be until May 2021.
As for full-moon supermoons, this will be the first of three this year.. The Feb. 19 supermoon will be a bit closer and one in March will be the farthest.