Stargazers across North America are gearing up for a spectacular celestial event as a total lunar eclipse, famously known as the "blood moon," is set to grace the night skies on March 13 and 14, 2025. This astronomical phenomenon is particularly exciting as it will be the first of its kind visible to the public since November 2022.
According to Dr. Angela Speck, professor of astrophysics at The University of Texas at San Antonio, the total lunar eclipse will be visible without the need for any special equipment, making it accessible to all. The event will see the moon take on mesmerizing red hues as it passes through Earth’s shadow, illuminating the night sky with its unique glow.
The eclipse will begin with penumbral phases at 11:57 p.m. ET on March 13, during which the moon will start to slide quietly through the outer part of the Earth’s shadow, also known as the penumbra. Over the course of the night, the eclipse will progress through partial phases before reaching totality at 2:26 a.m. ET on March 14. During totality, which will last for about 65 minutes, the moon will be shrouded in Earth's darkest shadow, the umbra, creating the stunning blood-red color this event is named for.
At 2:58 a.m. ET, the peak of the total eclipse will occur, with the moon remaining enveloped in this reddish glow until around 3:31 a.m. ET. The entire event will conclude with the moon exiting Earth’s shadow by 6:00 a.m. ET.
The term "blood moon" is derived from the reddish tint the moon acquires during the total lunar eclipse, likening the visual effect to the color seen during sunset or sunrise, when the sun’s rays have to pass through more of the Earth’s atmosphere. Dr. Speck explained, "When light passes through the atmosphere, the shorter wavelengths (like blue light) scatter more, resulting in the longer wavelengths (reds and oranges) dominating the light reaching the moon. Therefore, the moon can appear red during totality." This phenomenon is not only visually captivating; it also serves as a beautiful reminder of the unique alignment of celestial bodies during eclipse phases.
Weather permitting, this event is expected to be visible across nearly all of North America as well as parts of South America. Observers can expect the moon to be easily visible even if they stay within city limits, though clearer skies with minimal artificial light pollution will provide the best view. Cities like Toronto and New York are at prime viewing locations due to the optimal timing of the eclipse over their time zones.
NASA estimates approximately 3.2 billion people globally will witness at least part of the eclipse, with about 863 million fortunate enough to experience totality from beginning to end. Such celestial events present rare opportunities for communal stargazing; they spark fascination and wonder among seasoned astronomers and newbie watchers alike.
Prior to this event, the last total lunar eclipse visible from anywhere on Earth occurred on November 8, 2022. Following March's spectacle, residents of North America will need to wait for the next total lunar eclipse, which is not scheduled until 2026.
To prepare for the eclipse, Dr. Speck advises people to find locations with minimal urban light interference and to bring along blankets or comfortable seating for the occasion. If conditions are not ideal, viewers can still catch the show through livestreaming broadcasts from various platforms, which promise to provide telescope views of the eclipse.
Overall, this total lunar eclipse on March 13 and 14 is not just celestial entertainment but also serves as an educational moment for people of all ages, reminding us of the vast universe beyond our planet. Prepare to gaze upward and enjoy this natural wonder; clear skies will make all the difference!