On the night of March 13-14, 2025, North and South America will be treated to the dramatic sight of the first total lunar eclipse, known as the "blood moon," since November 2022. This celestial event promises to be spectacular, as the moon will take on a rusty red hue when it passes through the Earth’s shadow.
The total lunar eclipse is expected to begin with the penumbral phase at 9:57 p.m. MDT on March 13, followed by the partial phase starting at 11:09 p.m., as the moon shifts against the backdrop of Earth’s umbral shadow. Totality, when the entire lunar surface falls under the umbra, will occur from 12:26 a.m. to 1:31 a.m. MDT on March 14. This period will offer the best viewing experience, as it is during totality when the moon will appear most vividly red.
According to NASA, during this total lunar eclipse, "when the moon is within the umbra, it appears red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called 'Blood Moons' because of this phenomenon." The reddish color arises because the sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere casts its light onto the moon, simulating all of the world’s sunrises and sunsets projected onto its surface.
For those watching the event from different time zones, the timings will vary slightly. For example, viewers on the Eastern Time (EDT) coast can expect to see the penumbral phase starting at 11:57 p.m. followed by totality at 2:26 a.m., whereas those on the Pacific Time (PDT) coast will see the whole event slightly earlier due to the time difference, beginning at 8:57 p.m.
Observers can witness this natural phenomenon without any special eye protection, unlike solar eclipses, which require such precautions. NASA recommends using binoculars or telescopes for the best experience. "The best viewing conditions are in a dark environment away from bright lights," emphasizes Space.com, as this will enrich the experience and provide optimal views.
The excitement surrounding the upcoming blood moon has garnered significant attention. A stunning 13.41% of the global population, over 1 billion people, are projected to have the opportunity to view the totality phase. It is interesting to note how lunar eclipses can occur simultaneously across geographic regions, making it accessible to wide audiences even without special arrangements like those typically needed for solar eclipses.
Timing for the eclipse is also broken down for those who might miss the totality phase as it goes from partial back to penumbral after peak visibility. The sequence will reverse post-totality, with partial phases apparent until 3:31 AM EDT and concluding with the penumbral phase finishing by 6:00 AM.
During the total lunar eclipse, the moon is expected to be at its highest brightness, capturing the attention of both casual stargazers and seasoned astronomers. It beautifully coincides with the third and final full moon known as the worm moon during the winter month. The rich cultural significance of blood moons often leads many communities to gather, celebrate, and even hold viewings together, creating memorable social events.
For enthusiasts across North America, this upcoming total lunar eclipse is not just another astronomical event; it is a chance to connect with the cosmos, marveling at the beauty and wonder of our universe. So, mark your calendars for the night of March 13-14 and prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable visual experience!