How long does a lunar eclipse last?

The length of time a lunar eclipse takes varies, depending on the distance between the earth and the moon when the eclipse occurs, and whether it is a partial, or total eclipse. In general, a total lunar eclipse can last between 1 and 2 hours.

During a total lunar eclipse there are partial phases before and after the total phase. The partial phases occur when the moon is not entirely within the earth's shadow and the total phase occurs when the moon is completely within the shadow. The moon appears reddish in color during this phase. The entire eclipse lasts approximately 3 1/2 hours, and the total phase lasts approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours.