Pray for clear skies if you're in the Western Hemisphere

Lunar EclipseTomorrow evening, if you're lucky, you'll see a replica of the lunar eclipse that saved Christopher Columbus more than 5 centuries ago.

Back in 1504 Columbus was running out of luck when the eclipse saved his hide. He was stranded on the coast of Jamaica, facing hostile locals who refused much needed provisions. Chris consulted an astronomical almanac and knew a light show was about to happen.

So, he did what anyone in the same situation would do. He called the native leaders to his camp and threatened all kinds of mumbo jumbo if he didn't get the supplies he needed, including, of course, making the moon disappear.

As we know, the moon did disappear and Chris got his supplies.

Smart guy.

If the skies are clear we're in for a great show late Wednesday, early Thursday. Instead of the moon becoming invisible, residual light will be refracted and we'll see a reddish (though it may also be coppery, orange or even brownish).

If your own natives are growing restless with winter you could try the same trick to get the garbage to the curb faster. If they're older than 9 though you risk complete loss of coolness though.