A Rare ‘Blood Moon’ Lights Up the Sky Tonight
Stargazers in India and across parts of the world are in for a celestial spectacle tonight as a total lunar eclipse, popularly called the “Blood Moon”, will be visible. This stunning phenomenon happens when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, casting Earth’s shadow on the Moon and painting it in a deep red glow.
For centuries, the sight of a Blood Moon has fascinated—and sometimes even frightened—people across cultures. Tonight, skywatchers will get a clear chance to experience it firsthand.
Where Will the Blood Moon Be Visible?
Asia, including India and China, will have some of the best viewing opportunities. The eclipse will also be visible in parts of western Australia and along the eastern edge of Africa, according to news agency AFP.
- Europe and much of Africa: Only a partial view will be visible in the evening as the Moon rises.
- North and South America: Unfortunately, both continents will miss out on the total eclipse this time.
Blood Moon Timings in India
The total lunar eclipse begins at 11:00 PM IST on September 7 and ends at 12:22 AM IST on September 8. The event starts earlier with the penumbral phase at 10:01 PM IST, when the Moon begins moving into Earth’s outer shadow.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. No protective glasses or special equipment are needed—just a clear sky and a good viewing spot.
Blood Moons in Recent Years
This is the second total lunar eclipse of 2025, following the one in March, and the longest since 2022. For astronomy enthusiasts, tonight’s event is not just a treat but also a precursor to the rare total solar eclipse expected next year.
On August 12, 2026, parts of Europe—including Spain and Iceland—will witness a spectacular total solar eclipse. This will be the first such event on mainland Europe since 2006. In Spain, the eclipse will be visible along a 160-kilometre-wide path between Madrid and Barcelona, though neither city will experience the full totality.
Why Does the Moon Turn Red During a Lunar Eclipse?
The deep crimson hue of the Moon during a total lunar eclipse is caused by Earth’s atmosphere. As sunlight passes through it, blue light scatters more easily than red. This filtered red light bends around the Earth and reflects onto the Moon, giving it the iconic “bloody glow.”
As astrophysicist Ryan Milligan of Queen’s University Belfast explains:
“The Moon appears red during lunar eclipses because the only sunlight reaching it is reflected and scattered through the Earth’s atmosphere. Blue light is scattered more easily than red, leaving the Moon with its bloody glow.”
In short: If you’re in India, don’t miss tonight’s rare opportunity to witness the Blood Moon 2025—a breathtaking reminder of the wonders of space.
FAQs
1. What time will the Blood Moon 2025 be visible in India?
The total lunar eclipse, or Blood Moon, will begin at 11:00 PM IST on September 7 and end at 12:22 AM IST on September 8, with the penumbral phase starting at 10:01 PM IST.
2. Can we watch the Blood Moon without glasses?
Yes. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. No special glasses or protective gear are required.
3. Why does the Moon appear red during a lunar eclipse?
The Moon looks red because Earth’s atmosphere scatters blue light more than red. The remaining red light bends around Earth and reflects onto the Moon, creating the “bloody glow.”
4. Where will the Blood Moon 2025 be visible?
The eclipse will be best viewed in India, China, western Australia, and eastern Africa. Europe and parts of Africa will see a partial eclipse, while the Americas will miss it entirely.
5. When is the next big solar eclipse after the Blood Moon 2025?
A rare total solar eclipse will be visible on August 12, 2026, across parts of Spain, Iceland, and mainland Europe—the first since 2006.
