A remarkable celestial event will grace the skies early on March 14, 2025, as a total lunar eclipse, often referred to as the "blood moon," is set to occur. The eclipse will commence at 6:09 AM local time, with the maximum visibility phase at 7:58 AM, providing spectators with the opportunity to witness the Moon transform to vibrant hues of red and orange as it traverses the Earth's shadow.
This spectacular phenomenon, which happens roughly twice each year, will predominantly be visible from western regions of France. Those located within cities like Brest and western areas of Brittany stand the best chance to see the Moon fully eclipsed for brief moments before it dips below the horizon. This unique vantage point offers both excitement and exclusivity for eager viewers.
According to Olivier Las Vergnas, the president of the French Astronomy Association (AFA), the conditions for optimal viewing include ensuring “a very clear western horizon.” At the time of the eclipse, the Moon will be low on the horizon, and obtaining height may also benefit those wishing to catch every moment of the spectacle.
The initial phases of the lunar eclipse will commence with the Moon entering Earth’s penumbra at 5:10 AM, leading to the more dramatic moments around 6:10 AM when the shadows will become visibly apparent. Las Vergnas explains, “the red color occurs because the Earth obscures the direct sunlight, which usually lights up the Moon and gives it its white and bright hue.”
Effectively, this eclipse will allow the atmosphere to create an orange and red shading as the light gets filtered and refracted through the Earth's atmosphere, beautifully illuminating the celestial body during the totality phase, which lasts from 7:26 AM to 8:31 AM. The maximum point of the eclipse at 7:58 AM will provide one of the best views, but the overall eclipse visible duration varies by location:
- Strasbourg: 40 minutes of partial eclipse.
- Montpellier: 53 minutes.
- Paris: 1 hour.
- Bordeaux: 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Western Brittany may observe complete coverage of the moon.
The brunt of excitement, understandably, is concentrated around those fortunate to view it from Guadeloupe and Martinique. They will see all the phases of the lunar eclipse from 1:09 AM until around 4:47 AM, ensuring those residents have the longest opportunity to witness this celestial wonder!
For both seasoned astronomers and curious onlookers, Las Vergnas advises preparing for the event: “I suggest bringing along blankets, some snacks, and finding yourself comfortably settled to enjoy the show,” he notes. While binoculars can improve the viewing experience, they are not required.
The phenomenon is not just visually prestigious but culturally rich too. Historically, the red hue of the Moon during these events was often linked to ominous perceptions and bad omens, as noted by André Danjon who created the graduated scale of “brightness” for lunar eclipses. Now, we know science behind the enchantment of seeing such celestial events.
It’s worth considering, for those unable to view the lunar eclipse, the excitement doesn’t end here. A partial solar eclipse will follow just two weeks later on March 29, 2025, providing another opportunity for spectacle as the Moon will obscure part of the Sun. This second event, albeit different, is also likely to ignite curiosity and intrigue among the public.
With nature's cosmic show underway, enthusiasts and casual observers alike should mark their calendars and prepare as the exciting time approaches. Get your alarms set for early Friday morning and brace for the breathtaking view the universe is set to reveal!