Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse to Grace the Skies on March 14, 2025
The Science Behind the Blood Moon
A rare spectacle is on the horizon for sky gazers in 2025 as the Blood Moon total lunar eclipse is set to paint the night sky. Scheduled for March 14, observers in the Americas will witness this phenomenon if weather conditions are favorable. What makes the moon glow in such an eerie red, you might wonder? When Earth takes its spot between the Sun and the Moon, the sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere gives the Moon its dramatic reddish hue. This process borrows a page from the book of sunsets, which also turns the sky red for similar reasons.
Timings and Viewing Tips
Mark your calendars because NASA's detailed schedule sheds light on how this lunar magic will unfold. The event will kick off with the penumbral phase starting at 11:57 p.m. EDT, slowly introducing Earth’s shadow onto the Moon. Following that, the partial eclipse will take over the show from 1:09 a.m. to 2:26 a.m. EDT, paving the way for the much-awaited totality.
During the totality phase, from 2:26 a.m. to 3:31 a.m. EDT, the Moon will fully immerse in Earth’s shadow, showing off its blood-red outfit. The entire celestial encounter wraps up by 6:00 a.m. EDT. For those hoping to catch this cosmic ballet, you’re in luck! Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are risk-free to view with the naked eye. However, if you want an up-close and personal view, pulling out your binoculars or setting up a telescope can heighten the experience.
While the Americas are in for a full viewing treat, Europe and East Asia will catch only a glimpse of the lunar eclipse. Can’t wait for another? Fear not, as those in North America have the next total lunar eclipse marked on their calendars for March 2029.