Stargazers around the world were treated to the year’s first total lunar eclipse, known as the "blood worm moon," which occurred between late Thursday night, March 13, 2025, and the early hours of Friday, March 14, 2025. This celestial spectacle was visible from diverse locations, including major cities such as Toronto, Canada, and Richmond, British Columbia, making it an event of global importance.
The eclipse began just before midnight, around 11:25 p.m. on March 13, and reached its peak around 2:30 a.m. on March 14. Enthusiastic observers noted the atmospheric conditions were just right, as many enjoyed clear skies, allowing for unhindered views of the mesmerizing transformation of the moon, which appeared red during totality due to the Earth’s shadow.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is positioned directly between the moon and the sun. According to Rosanna Tilbrook, an astronomer at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, "When this happens, the only light reaching the moon’s surface is from the edges of the Earth’s atmosphere. The air molecules from Earth’s atmosphere scatter out most of the blue light. The remaining light reflects onto the moon’s surface with a red glow, making the moon appear red..."
The enchanting nature of the blood moon isn’t just for its visual wonder. The name derives from the red hue the moon takes on during the eclipse, akin to the appearance of blood. This was not simply any lunar eclipse, but also coincided with what is commonly referred to as the "worm moon," representing the full moon of March, which signals the thawing of the Earth and the emergence of worms and insects. Historically, this name has roots from various sources, including Native American culture.
Photographers like Liron Gertsman took advantage of this rare occasion to capture compelling images of the blood worm moon against Vancouver's skyline. "With lunar eclipses being such rare and beautiful spectacles, I always take advantage of it," Gertsman stated about his continued passion for astrophotography. He shared visual memories of the event, bringing it to life for those who couldn’t witness it directly.
The eclipse began with the moon gradually moving through the Earth’s shadow at approximately 9 p.m., reaching totality just after 11:26 p.m. The unique conditions allowed individuals throughout Richmond, BC, and beyond to experience this remarkable event. "Last night’s weather was a rare treat—after days of rain, I had almost lost hope, but the sky surprised us with a perfectly clear night," said Garfield Wang, another photographer who captured the moon’s deep rustic hue during peak visibility, describing it as more akin to "orange soda, casting a dreamy, romantic glow across the night sky."
Feedback from local residents emphasized the joy found under the stars, with many sharing their views on social media, expressing their awe and excitement when catching sight of the spectacular event. The moon started reverting to its usual color around 3 a.m., marking the end of the mesmerizing display.
The Canadian Space Agency states, "There are on average two lunar eclipses per year, and total lunar eclipses happen in 37.3 percent of all lunar eclipses." The previous total lunar eclipse took place back in 2022, reminding skywatchers just how infrequent these events can be. The next total lunar eclipse is slated for September 7, 2025. This highlights for many the upcoming opportunities to bask once again under the beauty of the cosmos.
While celebrations captured the beauty of the moment, the excitement extends to the coming seasons. The blood worm moon acts as both closure to winter and herald of spring. The significance of this dual phenomenon serves as encouragement for observers to prepare for the blooming flowers and warmed earth soon to come—encouraging the emergence of earthworms, robins, and nature once again coming to life.
The lunar eclipse on March 14 was not only just another astronomical rarity but also another reminder of how cosmic events can unite people across the globe, igniting excitement and curiosity about science, nature, and the skies above.