A near-total lunar eclipse—about 96% of the Moon shaded by Earth's shadow—will be a deep partial eclipse visible mainly across the Americas from Thursday night into Friday.

This event is the year’s second lunar eclipse and the fourth overall this year, with a total lunar eclipse having occurred in March and the next full eclipse not until 2028 and 2029 for different continents.

In Jacksonville, the eclipse timeline runs from penumbral start at 9:23 p.m. local time to partial beginning at 10:33 p.m., maximum around 12:12 a.m., with the partial ending at 1:51 a.m. and penumbral end at 3:01 a.m.

Observers are advised to choose dark-sky locations with unobstructed horizons to maximize the eclipse viewing.

A clear western sky is particularly important, and cloud cover could obscure the event.

Readers are invited to share photos via PinIt for possible display on ClickOrlando.com and TV.

The article is reported by Anna Roman, service journalism correspondent for the News & Observer.

Viewers are encouraged to check the First Alert Weather app for the latest forecast.

Local conditions in Athens could be hindered by lingering clouds and scattered showers, reducing viewing opportunities.

Weather remains the key factor for visibility; a clear western horizon and minimal cloud cover are essential for a good view.

Astro photographer Franz Xaver Kohlhauf promotes the event and offers viewing guidance.

Griffith Observatory and the Virtual Telescope Project will stream the event from Los Angeles and Manciano, Italy, though weather and Moon position may affect visibility.