On the night of March 13, 2025, the Moon will transform dramatically during a total lunar eclipse, visible throughout various regions, including much of North and South America, as well as parts of Europe and Africa. This fascinating astronomical event, often referred to as the "blood moon" for its reddish hue, occurs when Earth interposes itself between the Sun and the Moon, obscuring direct sunlight from reaching our satellite.
This extraordinary spectacle, which will take place from the night of March 13 until the early morning of March 14, is set to last for approximately six hours, with the peak of the eclipse capturing the Moon's full transformation. According to NASA, the totality — the phase where the Moon is completely engulfed by Earth's shadow — will last for 66 minutes. This should provide ample opportunity for skywatchers to marvel at the stunning celestial show.
For those planning to catch the spectacle, timing varies by location. Specifically, the penumbral phase will commence at 11:57 p.m. on March 13, 2025, Miami time, with totality peaking at 2:26 a.m. on March 14. Meanwhile, those in Mexico can expect to see the eclipse begin at 9:57 p.m. local time, with totality starting at 12:30 p.m. Colombian viewers will see the penumbral phase starting at 10:57 p.m. local time, with totality around 1:58 a.m. For viewers in Argentina, the eclipse will begin at 2:09 a.m. local time on March 14.
NASA advises viewers to seek out locations with minimal light pollution for the best viewing experience. Though no special equipment is necessary to observe the lunar eclipse, amateur astronomers can use binoculars or telescopes to enrich the experience. According to NASA, "the portion of sunlight filtered by Earth’s atmosphere creates the eye-catching red glow during the eclipse," as the atmosphere scatters the shorter blue wavelengths of light.
During this phenomenon, the contrasts between the reddish Moon and the dark sky lend to its dramatic beauty. An expert from the Lowell Observatory, Amanda Bosh, explains, “It's a splendid show in the night sky!” Further emphasizing its appeal, she adds, “I love to see the solar system, the universe, at work.”
The event also holds significant cultural meaning. Many believe it is important to view lunar eclipses freely, and there are various myths surrounding them. Recent concerns have arisen about the eclipse's potential effects on pregnant women, fueled by traditional beliefs. According to reports, some expectant mothers feel the need to protect themselves with talismans or other means due to fears of harm to their unborn children.
Clarifying this misinformation, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) state there is no scientific basis for these beliefs. They assert, "Eclipses do not affect the health of the baby or the mother, so they can carry out their activities normally during the March 2025 eclipse.” The scientific consensus is clear: lunar eclipses are safe for all viewers, and there are no legitimate risks associated with watching them.
Sky enthusiasts across Mexico will find the eclipse visible across the entire country as long as weather permits. The Association Astronómica del Valle de Toluca (AAVT) plans to broadcast the lunar spectacle live on social media, making the event accessible to many who may not be able to witness it firsthand.
This total lunar eclipse is particularly significant as it marks the first such eclipse seen since December 2023. For those who wish to capture the moment photogenically, basic smartphones can take decent shots, or more advanced photography equipment with long focal lengths can also yield impressive results. Community star-gazing events are likely to pop up too, allowing enthusiasts to share their experience together.
Looking beyond March 2025, the next total lunar eclipse is scheduled for September of the same year, with two more total eclipses expected the following year and another partial eclipse to follow later. Eclipses tend to occur several times each year, but not every event reaches the breathtaking totality seen during this lunar spectacle.
For anyone interested, the eclipse will wax on, offering not just aesthetic joy but also numerous opportunities for educators, enthusiasts, and professionals alike to engage deeply with the wonders of our universe. It promises to be remembered as one of the most visible and appreciated astronomical phenomena of recent times. Mark your calendars, prepare your telescopes, and get ready to be amazed by the cosmic dance of the Earth, Moon, and Sun!