On September 18th, there will be a partial lunar eclipse. Not nearly as dramatic as a total solar eclipse, but it can still be a fascinating sight.

Lunar eclipses are caused by the Earth passing between the sun and the moon. This causes the Earth’s shadow to fall on the moon’s surface. This week, the shadow does not completely cover the moon, which is why it is called a partial eclipse and not a total eclipse.

Even for a partial eclipse, it is modest. At the time of greatest eclipse, the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow will cover only 3.5% of the visible hemisphere of the moon. Nevertheless, it is fascinating to watch as the shadow begins to bite into the moon and creep across its surface.

The eclipse will be visible from Europe, Africa, Greenland and the Americas, but you’ll need to set your alarm for it. From London, the prominent part of the eclipse (known as the umbral phase) will begin at 03:13 BST; maximum eclipse will occur at 03:44 BST; and the event will be over at 04:15 BST.

As with most lunar celestial observations, no equipment is required: just your eyes and, in this case, a strong cup of coffee in the morning.