KAMLOOPS — A breathtaking celestial event awaits as North America prepares for a total lunar eclipse on the night of March 13, 2025. Scheduled to peak shortly after midnight, this rare astronomical occurrence will offer stargazers across the continent the opportunity to witness the transformation of the moon to a deep, blood-red hue—a phenomenon often referred to as the "blood moon."
The eclipse will officially begin around 11:30 p.m. on March 13 and will be fully visible across the B.C. Interior, including Kamloops. The dim red moon will emerge as the Earth casts its shadow over the lunar surface, diminishing its light. Abedin Abedin, a physics and astronomy instructor at Thompson Rivers University (TRU), explained to CFJC Today, "The sun is over here and as it shines toward the Earth, it will cast a shadow. When the moon passes through the shadow, we will see the lunar eclipse. Basically, the light from the moon will significantly diminish."
Observers can best view the eclipse from approximately 2:30 to 3:00 AM, with conditions across various regions influencing visibility. On Vancouver Island, for example, the best viewing times will be from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m., according to Dr. Gregory Arkos, astronomy professor at Vancouver Island University (VIU). He elaborated, "Sometimes we hear these things called Blood Moons, because during the deepest part of the eclipse the moon passes... Instead of having a brilliant full moon, what you’re left with is this very deep, dark red blood-red colored moon."
Families and groups are encouraged to experience this astronomical marvel together. Orbax Thomas, a science communicator with the physics department at the University of Guelph, said, "It’s one of these great things... families and friends can get together and just bond over this incredible universe and take a look up and enjoy the masterpieces it unfurls."
For those intrigued by the science behind it, the event presents an opportunity to engage young people with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). According to Thomas, participation can stimulate curiosity about the cosmos and educational discussions about celestial mechanics. He added, "You don’t have to wear any protective eyewear, but I do recommend using binoculars or telescopes to get the best view of the blood moon."
This lunar eclipse is one of only two or three to occur every year. The excitement surrounding it is high, especially since the last total lunar eclipse took place back in November 2022. Observers won’t have to wait too long for their next chance, but they will need to mark their calendars as the next total lunar eclipse won’t appear until March 2026.
From British Columbia to Ontario, the pathway of the eclipse encompasses vast areas, rendering it accessible to millions. Each region will have its unique perspective, potentially influenced by local weather patterns, so preparation is key for prospective viewers.
Weather predictions play a significant role, particularly for places like Nanaimo, where conditions may not be completely clear. Fortunately, forecasts indicate slightly improving conditions, fostering hope for those eager to witness this captivating spectacle. The event is expected to span around six hours, lasting throughout the night from March 13 to March 14.
This eclipse offers much more than just stunning visuals; it serves as a reminder of the incredible astronomical processes at work. The celestial dance between the Earth and moon where the moon takes on the color of rust or blood due to the scattering of sunlight is absolutely mesmerizing.
For anyone across North America, this total lunar eclipse is not to be missed. It's not just an astronomical phenomenon; it’s a chance to gather, share experiences, and marvel at the universe around us—an opportunity to reflect upon our connections to the cosmos.