By Alex Fitzpatrick and TIME Photo
For those who were able to see it in person, Wednesday morning’s Blood Moon lunar eclipse didn’t disappoint as skywatchers spotted Earth’s always-orbiting pal turn a deep shade of red.
Why that color? During a Blood Moon lunar eclipse, Earth gets between the Sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. The red color comes as Earth’s atmosphere scatters the sunlight, stripping away blue light and leaving behind the red to reach the moon’s surface.
If you missed Wednesday’s Blood Moon — the second of the year and fourth lunar eclipse — check it out here in a single GIF. Then check out past Blood Moons, too.
See the Best Photos of the Blood Moon
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