Skywatchers across North America and beyond are in for a celestial treat as the first total lunar eclipse in three years—dubbed the “Blood Moon”—is set to appear on the night of March 13-14, 2025. The rare astronomical event will turn the moon a striking red as it passes through Earth's shadow.
What causes a Blood Moon?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that completely engulfs the lunar surface. During totality, the moon takes on a reddish hue due to sunlight filtering through Earth's atmosphere. This effect, known as Rayleigh scattering, allows longer red wavelengths to reach the moon while shorter blue and green wavelengths scatter away—creating the eerie blood-red glow.
The exact color of the moon will depend on atmospheric conditions. Predictions suggest relatively clear skies, meaning the moon could glow in shades of bright orange to deep copper red.
Where and When to Watch the Eclipse
The total lunar eclipse will unfold over six hours, with the most dramatic phase—totality—lasting for 66 minutes. The eclipse will be visible across North and South America, parts of western Europe, Africa, and the Pacific region.
- North America: Begins late on March 13 and continues into the early hours of March 14.
- Western Europe: The blood moon will be setting in the west as the eclipse progresses.
- New Zealand: The fully eclipsed moon will rise in the east just after sunset.
The most anticipated moment—the moon fully engulfed in Earth's shadow—will occur at 06:26 UTC (1:26 a.m. EST, 10:26 p.m. PST), when the lunar surface will appear in deep shades of red and orange.
How to Watch and Capture the Eclipse
Unlike solar eclipses, a lunar eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye. Observers are encouraged to find an open sky with minimal light pollution for the best experience.
For photography enthusiasts, a smartphone on a tripod with reduced exposure settings can capture stunning images. Those with binoculars or telescopes will be able to observe finer details of the moon’s craters and surface features as they darken and shift in color.
What’s Next?
If you miss this eclipse, another total lunar eclipse will occur later in the year on September 7-8, though it will primarily be visible in Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia. North and South American viewers will have to wait until March 3, 2026, for the next total lunar eclipse visible in their region.
This rare Blood Moon promises a mesmerizing spectacle for skywatchers worldwide, offering a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the cosmos.
