Stunning images of rare supermoon eclipse

Stunning images of rare supermoon eclipse

It's the first time a total lunar eclipse has combined with a so-called supermoon since 1982.  Photos from around the world »

A super moon rises over the Lower Fox Creek School near Strong City, Kan., Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015. It was the first time Sunday since 1982 that a total lunar eclipse was combined with a supermoon. (Travis Heying/The Wichita Eagle via AP)

Stargazers were treated to a rare astronomical phenomenon when a total lunar eclipse combined with a so-called supermoon.

Those in the United States, Europe, Africa and western Asia were able to view the coupling, weather permitting, Sunday night or early Monday.

It was the first time the events have made a twin appearance since 1982, and they won't again until 2033.

When a full moon makes its closest approach to Earth, it appears slightly bigger and brighter than usual and has a reddish hue.

That coincides with a full lunar eclipse where the moon, Earth and sun will be lined up, with Earth's shadow totally obscuring the moon. (AP)

Find more news-related pictures in our photo galleries and follow us on Tumblr.