A breathtaking celestial event is on the horizon! On the night of March 13-14, 2025, skywatchers will witness a total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon.
This marks the first total lunar eclipse visible anywhere on Earth since November 2022 and kicks off a series of three eclipses between 2025 and 2026.
What is a Blood Moon?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow over the lunar surface. During totality, the Moon takes on a deep reddish-orange hue, earning the name "Blood Moon." This phenomenon happens because Earth's atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light while bending the longer red and orange hues into its shadow.
Best locations and timings to watch
This eclipse will be visible across North and South America, with some glimpses in Western Europe before the Moon sets.
Key totality timings across North America:
- Eastern Time (ET): 2:26 a.m. – 3:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Central Time (CT): 1:26 a.m. – 2:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Mountain Time (MT): 12:26 a.m. – 1:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Pacific Time (PT): 11:26 p.m. (March 13) – 12:31 a.m. (March 14)
- Alaska Time (AKDT): 10:26 p.m. – 11:31 p.m. (March 13)
- Hawaii Time (HST): 8:26 p.m. – 9:31 p.m. (March 13)
For the best experience, step outside at least 75 minutes before and after totality to see the gradual shadow movement across the Moon.
How to watch the lunar eclipse
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. You don’t need any special equipment, but binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view.
Here are some tips for the perfect viewing experience:
- Find a dark location away from city lights.
- Check the weather forecast for clear skies.
- Use a camera or phone with night mode to capture the moment.
- If you have a telescope, fine-tune it for a close-up view of the Blood Moon.
More lunar eclipses
The next total lunar eclipse will occur on September 7-8, 2025, visible across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Another Blood Moon will appear on March 2-3, 2026, visible to most of the world, including North America.
