Stargazers around the world are preparing for a spectacular event as a total lunar eclipse, commonly referred to as a “blood moon,” is set to illuminate the night sky on **September 7-8, 2025**. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes directly between the moon and the sun, casting a shadow over the lunar surface.
A total lunar eclipse happens approximately three times a year. The specific alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun creates this breathtaking spectacle. Notably, the tilted orbit of the moon means that total eclipses do not occur every month during the new moon phase.
Viewing the Eclipse
In the week leading up to the eclipse, enthusiasts are encouraged to find optimal viewing locations. This preparation allows photographers to capture stunning images of the eclipsed moon alongside notable landmarks. Observers should also ensure that their views are unobstructed by buildings or other obstructions.
During totality, the moon will appear to take on a deep red hue as it enters the umbra, the darkest part of Earth’s shadow. This reddish glow is a result of **Rayleigh scattering**, where shorter blue wavelengths of sunlight are scattered by particles in Earth’s atmosphere, allowing longer red wavelengths to pass through. As a result, the moon becomes a vibrant red, earning the nickname “blood moon.”
For those concerned about cloud cover or if the moon is below the horizon, **Space.com** will host a livestream of the event, providing a virtual viewing experience. Additional updates will be available through their lunar eclipse live blog, showcasing various phases of the eclipse and featuring reports from observers in different locations.
Total Lunar Eclipse Details
The total lunar eclipse will commence globally at **11:28 a.m. (1528 GMT)** on **September 7**, with totality reaching its peak at **1:30 p.m. ET (1730 GMT)**, lasting an impressive **82 minutes**. Although the timing of the eclipse phases will be the same worldwide, visibility will depend on whether the moon is above the horizon at the time.
An estimated **5.8 billion people**, or roughly **76%** of the global population, across regions such as Australia, Asia, Africa, and eastern Europe will have the opportunity to witness totality from start to finish. On the other hand, viewers in certain areas, including the **U.K.**, **Spain**, and **Brazil**, may see only partial phases of the eclipse, while those in the **Americas** will miss it entirely as the moon will be below the horizon throughout the event.
Importantly, there is no risk to eyesight when observing a total lunar eclipse, unlike during a solar eclipse where protective measures are necessary. Viewers can safely observe the event using telescopes, binoculars, or simply with the naked eye.
For those looking to capture the memory of this celestial event, resources are available on photographing lunar eclipses with DSLR cameras, along with recommendations for the best cameras and lenses suited for astrophotography.
In conclusion, this upcoming total lunar eclipse promises to be a remarkable event for millions around the world. Preparations now can enhance the experience, whether through photography or simple observation.
