Stargazers in the Netherlands will be treated to a total eclipse of the sun on Friday evening, and the weather forecast makes it likely the ‘blood moon’ will be clearly visible as the sky darkens.

A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly behind the earth and into its shadow. This can only happen with the sun, earth and moon are aligned, with the earth in between.

The total eclipse will begin at 9.30 pm when the moon rises and will reach its peak at around 10.20pm. The eclipse will end at 11.14, making it the longest eclipse of the moon this century.

Special events are being organised all over the country, including Amsterdam, near Hilversum, in Dwingeloo and on Texel so people can watch the eclipse with experts.

The next total eclipse of the moon will be on January 21 next year in the early hours of the morning.