A total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a “Blood Moon,” is set to occur from Thursday, March 13, 2025, through early Friday, March 14, 2025, providing stargazers around the world with a spectacular celestial view. This astronomical event is expected to be visible across North and South America, parts of Europe, Africa, and western Asia. The eclipse will showcase the mesmerizing transformation of the moon as it passes through Earth's shadow, turning it from its usual bright silver to a deep, coppery red.
The prime time to observe this celestial phenomenon will begin on March 13 at approximately 11:57 p.m. EDT when the moon first starts to move obscuratively toward Earth's shadow. Totality, the phase when the moon is entirely eclipsed, will commence at 2:26 a.m. EDT on March 14 and will be visible for just over one hour. Stargazers on the West Coast will notice the start of totality slightly earlier at 11:26 p.m. PDT, with the eclipse providing ample visibility across the evening and early morning hours.
This total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the sun and the moon, effectively blocking sunlight from directly reaching the moon. While this might imply total darkness, the moon does not vanish completely; instead, it takes on its characteristic blood-red hue due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth's atmosphere. This atmospheric scattering causes shorter blue wavelengths of light to disperse, allowing longer red wavelengths to reach the moon, enveloping it in this dramatic color. This vivid transformation has earned the phenomenon the nickname 'Blood Moon'.
Interestingly, the lunar eclipse is not the only celestial name for the full moon occurring this March. Traditionally, farmers and indigenous tribes have called it the worm moon for the earthworms surfacing during the onset of spring. Other names attributed to this month's full moon include the Eagle Moon and the Goose Moon, recognizing the return of these animals.
Observers are encouraged to find dark, clear locations to enjoy the spectacle; no special equipment is necessary, but binoculars or telescopes can amplify the experience. The challenge, of course, lies in the weather, as cloudy skies could obstruct the view. Astrophysicists note this lunar event is timely, as total lunar eclipses aren’t exceedingly rare; on average, they take place about every two and half years. The last total lunar eclipse visible from the U.S. occurred on November 8, 2022.
For stargazers beyond the Americas, this week's celestial event will manifest differently. While those in the U.K. will witness only a partial eclipse, with the moon moving partially through Earth's shadow until it sets below the horizon, observers across North and South America will enjoy the full event. Notably, those located on the western coast of the U.S. will have the lunar eclipse perfectly positioned for viewing.
According to astronomer Imo Bell from the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, “Even if you have to get up super early to see it, I would definitely recommend trying because seeing it in real life is really, really cool.”
Lunar eclipses are of great scientific interest, as they provide insights not only to amateur astronomers but to scientists studying the atmosphere. The color variations during eclipses can actually reflect atmospheric conditions here on Earth. More dust or pollution can intensify the reddish appearance of the moon, creating spectacular views.
For those unable to view the March 13 lunar spectacle, don't fret! Another total lunar eclipse will take place on September 7, 2025. This future event will be particularly favorable for viewing from London and across much of Europe. Until then, March 2025 offers enthusiasts another rich opportunity to witness the beauty of celestial motion.
Mark your calendars for this breathtaking cosmic dance on March 13-14, and don't miss out on this chance to gaze upon the skies!