March astronomy outlook: Penumbral lunar eclipse to end the month

After a relatively dull February, March brings some excitement with the spring equinox marking the start of astronomical spring plus a penumbral lunar eclipse.

Following a new moon on March 10, the first major event of March is the spring equinox on March 20.

This marks the official start of astronomical spring at 03:01 am at which time the Sun will shine directly on the equator. Resulting in almost identical periods of day and night across the world.

For those in the Southern Hemisphere, the date signals the beginning of astronomical autumn.

A few days later on March 24 comes the best time to try to spot Mercury as it reaches its greatest eastern elongation. To find the planet, look towards the western skyline just after sunset, where it will reach an eastern elongation of 18.7 degrees from the Sun.

Closing out the month is the arrival of the Worm Moon, and a penumbral lunar eclipse.

Like all full moons, the Worm Moon on March 25 was named by Native American tribes who chose the name due to the timing of earthworms emerging from the ground as winter departed at this time of the year.

This year the Worm Moon is extra special thanks to a penumbral lunar eclipse. Unlike a full eclipse, a penumbral eclipse sees the Moon pass through the Earth's penumbra, this is the partial shadow of the planet.

As it does so, the Moon's surface will darken. Unfortunately, the event will not be visible from the UK or Ireland but will put on a show across the Americas.

Planning a night under the stars? Don't forget to check the WeatherRadar before setting out to spot any of these events!