This happens when the sun, earth, and moon are in perfect alignment and the moon moves through the shadow of the earth.  This causes the full moon to appear dark, reddish in color, and three dimensional. It will look like a red-orange ball, suspended in space among the stars.

The moon rises at 5:26 pm and the eclipse starts at 5:43 pm. Totality begins at 7:00 pm and ends at 7:50 pm.  The partial phase of the eclipse will end at 9:07 pm.  The Coachella Valley Preserve offers a prime location for viewing this event, with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon and dark skies.  Telescopes will also be set up to view the Saturn and its rings, Mars, the Great Orion Nebula, and other celestial objects.  Remember to dress warmly as the Desert nights get cold.  Bring a chair and refreshments if you want.  It's a great idea to bring a pair of binoculars (regular 7 x 35 binoculars for sporting events will work fine) or even a telescope if you have one.

The star party will begin at sundown (5:30 pm) and last until approximately 9:00 pm.  This will be the last Lunar Eclipse visible from anywhere in the world until December 2010, so it is your last chance to see one for almost three years!