This weekend, skywatchers around the world will have the opportunity to witness a spectacular celestial event – a total lunar eclipse, also known as a “blood moon”. On the night of September 7th and into the early hours of September 8th, the moon will be bathed in a mesmerizing copper-red glow as Earth’s shadow passes across its surface.
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Unlike solar eclipses that require special protective gear to observe safely, lunar eclipses can be viewed with the naked eye. This makes it an accessible and awe-inspiring event for people of all ages. The upcoming total lunar eclipse is the second of the year, with the first occurring earlier in the year.
During a lunar eclipse, Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. The amount of dust and clouds in Earth’s atmosphere can affect the colour of the moon during the eclipse, with more particles resulting in a deeper red hue.
While the upcoming total lunar eclipse won’t be visible from the United States, it will be viewable across various regions including Africa, Antarctica, Australia, Asia, and Europe. The cosmic event is expected to be visible to an estimated 5.8 billion people, covering approximately 71% of the world’s population.
The total lunar eclipse is set to begin on September 7th and carry into the early hours of September 8th, depending on one’s location on the planet. The eclipse will have different phases, starting with the penumbral phase at 11:28 a.m. ET, followed by the umbral phase at 12:27 p.m. ET. The peak of the eclipse is expected at 2:12 p.m. ET, with the totality phase lasting around one hour and 22 minutes.
For those who may miss this weekend’s event, the next total lunar eclipse is scheduled for March 2-3, 2026. This will be the third eclipse in a series of three total lunar eclipses within a year. Additionally, celestial events like these are often connected, with September’s lunar eclipse followed by a partial solar eclipse later in 2025.
If you find yourself within the eclipse’s viewing range, simply look up to witness this stunning astronomical display. While binoculars and telescopes can enhance the viewing experience, they are not necessary to enjoy the spectacle. As always, make sure to check NASA’s eclipse map for precise timing based on your location.
The allure of celestial events like the total lunar eclipse lies in their ability to captivate and inspire wonder and curiosity about the universe. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a casual observer, the opportunity to witness such a phenomenon serves as a reminder of the beauty and majesty of the cosmos. So mark your calendars and prepare to be spellbound by the magic of the blood moon total lunar eclipse this weekend.