Stargazers across North and South America are preparing for a celestial spectacle known as the "Blood Worm Moon," set to take place on the night of March 13, 2025, with totality visible on the morning of March 14. This extraordinary event marks the first total lunar eclipse observable from the Americas since 2022 and promises to bathe the Moon in a deep reddish hue.
A blood moon occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, resulting in Earth's shadow completely covering the Moon. During this moment, only the sunlight filtered through Earth's atmosphere reaches the lunar surface, leading to the reddish coloration associated with the phenomenon. According to Daniel Brown, an astronomer at Nottingham Trent University, "The lunar eclipse is just around the corner, offering viewers the chance to see the solar system in action."
This total lunar eclipse will last approximately six hours, with the most visually stunning phase, known as totality, lasting just over one hour. For those located in North America, the eclipse will begin at 1:09 AM Eastern Time (0509 GMT), when the Moon will start to show the effects of Earth's shadow. Totality, the peak of the event, will occur from 2:26 AM to 3:31 AM ET on March 14, before the Moon begins to reemerge from shadow. Notably, for observers in France, totality will run from 7:26 AM to 8:31 AM local time (0626-0731 GMT), though only regions on the far western edges will manage to see this spectacle before the Moon sets.
Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective glasses for safe viewing, lunar eclipses can be enjoyed with the naked eye, making it easier for individuals to experience this stunning event without any special equipment. "The more clouds and dust there are, the redder the Moon will appear," notes Brown. His enthusiasm for this astronomical event is palpable, even as he admits disdain for the term “Blood Moon,” which he feels carries negative connotations, arguing it stems from myths surrounding apocalyptic narratives.
The lunar eclipse's alternate name, the "Blood Worm Moon," originates from the Old Farmer’s Almanac. March's full moon is named for the time of year when earthworms begin to emerge as the weather warms up, hinting at the rejuvenation of spring. This cultural significance gives the event additional layers beyond mere celestial observation.
On March 29, just two weeks later, skywatchers can also look forward to witnessing another astronomical event: a partial solar eclipse. Observers across eastern Canada, parts of Europe, northern Russia, and northwest Africa will be able to see the Moon partially covering the Sun's light. It's important to remind the public about safety during this event, as viewing even partial solar eclipses without proper eye protection can be dangerous, unlike the safety of viewing lunar eclipses.
Skywatchers are not only excited for the current eclipse but also for future ones; the next total lunar eclipse will occur on September 7, 2025, followed by another on March 3, 2026. Total lunar eclipses are less frequent than partial ones, occurring just about three times per year globally. The final total lunar eclipse visible before this upcoming event was seen back in 2022, making the anticipation surrounding this celestial display even more significant.
The Blood Worm Moon offers not just entertainment but also educational opportunities, showing how our planet interacts with celestial bodies. While forecasts for the U.S. predict some cloudy conditions, there's hope for clear skies where enthusiasts can take advantage of this rare occasion.
Overall, the Blood Worm Moon presents not just another opportunity for stargazing but also enhances our connection to the cultural narratives of lunar phenomena. Whether you’re gathering friends and family to watch the Moon change color or simply stepping outside to steal a glance, this event promises to demonstrate the beauty of our universe. So mark your calendars, and prepare for the skies to paint themselves red.