PHOENIX -- For the first time in 456 years, a total lunar eclipse and the winter solstice overlapped. The eclipse, which has 12 phases, started at 11:33 p.m. Arizona time and lasted for more than three hours.
During a lunar eclipse, the moon, Earth and the sun are aligned so that Earth blocks the sun's rays from the moon.
While in Earth's shadow, the moon took on a vibrant red color, which lasted until about 1:30 a.m. Astronomers say this is probably the best time to view an eclipse.
Unlike a solar eclipse, it's perfectly safe to watch a lunar eclipse with the naked eye, and it can be seen anywhere on the night side of Earth.
