The September 2025 Blood Moon: Longest Lunar Eclipse in Years

What Is a Blood Moon?

On the night of September 7–8, 2025, people across the world will get to witness a breathtaking event a total lunar eclipse, also called a Blood Moon. This happens when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon’s surface.

During the total phase of the eclipse, the Moon will turn a deep reddish color, giving it the dramatic name “Blood Moon.” This year’s eclipse is especially exciting because it will be the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022, with totality lasting 1 hour and 22 minutes.

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to watch without any special glasses and can be seen by billions at once, since half the Earth’s population will have the chance to view it.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

Despite old myths that saw Blood Moons as omens, the science is straightforward. The red color is caused by Earth’s atmosphere.

Here’s how it works:

• As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, the shorter blue light waves scatter away (the same reason the sky looks blue).

• The longer red and orange light waves bend through the atmosphere and reach the Moon.

• This bathes the Moon in a coppery or blood-red glow, similar to the colors of a sunset.

The exact shade can vary depending on atmospheric conditions. For example, dust, volcanic ash, or pollution can make the Moon appear darker or brighter red.

Timeline of the Eclipse

The eclipse will happen in stages, each visible at different times around the world. All times are given in Universal Time (UTC):

-15:28 UTC - Penumbral phase begins (slight dimming of the Moon).

-16:27 UTC - Partial eclipse starts (Earth’s shadow begins crossing the Moon).

-17:30 UTC - Total eclipse begins (the Moon turns red).

-18:11 UTC - Maximum eclipse (deepest red).

-18:52 UTC - Total eclipse ends.

-19:56 UTC - Partial eclipse ends.

-20:55 UTC - Penumbral phase ends.

In total, the event will last over five hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy it.

Where Will It Be Visible?

The Blood Moon will be visible across much of the world, but the view depends on your location:

Fully visible: large parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Countries like India, China, Russia, eastern Africa, and Australia will see the full eclipse.

Partially visible: Western North America, eastern South America, and regions of the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and Antarctica.

Not visible at all: Central and eastern North America, including cities like Boston, where the Moon will already be below the horizon. Globally, about 85% of people will see at least the total phase, while almost 88% will notice the dimming during the penumbral stage.

How to Watch the Blood Moon

One of the best things about lunar eclipses is that they require no special equipment. Unlike solar eclipses, they are completely safe to look at with the naked eye.

To get the best view:

Find a dark spot away from city lights.

• Use binoculars or a telescope if you want to see details on the Moon’s surface.

• Check local moonrise and weather forecasts to avoid missing out due to clouds.

• Apps and websites like Time and Date can help you track the timings in your specific city.

Cultural and Astronomical Significance

This eclipse is not just a scientific event but also a cultural one. It coincides with the full Corn Moon, which is linked to harvest traditions in some regions. Astronomically, it is part of Saros cycle 128, a repeating cycle of eclipses that occurs every 18 years. Interestingly, just two weeks later, on September 21, 2025, there will be a partial solar eclipse but that one will require protective glasses to view safely.

A Moment of Cosmic Connection

In today’s world of busy routines and bright city lights, events like the Blood Moon remind us of the vast universe we’re part of. Whether you’re in Tokyo, rural Africa, Australia’s outback, or the countryside of Europe, step outside on September 7 and look up. The Blood Moon will glow above us, a free and awe-inspiring show that connects billions of people under the same night sky.