For the first time in over two years, skywatchers across North America will witness a total lunar eclipse, during which the full moon will turn a deep red hue. This celestial event, commonly referred to as a “blood moon”, will take place in the early hours of March 14, 2025, for those in the eastern United States and Canada, while viewers in the western half of North America will see it before midnight on March 13.
What Causes a ‘Blood Moon’?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that gradually darkens the lunar surface. The eerie reddish glow of the moon during the eclipse happens due to Rayleigh scattering—the same phenomenon responsible for red and orange sunsets. As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths like blue and green are scattered, while longer red wavelengths bend toward the moon.
The exact shade of red depends on atmospheric conditions. If the atmosphere is relatively clear, the moon will appear a bright coppery-red. If there is a significant presence of dust, pollution, or volcanic particles, the moon could take on a deeper crimson hue.
Where and When to Watch the Total Lunar Eclipse?
The lunar eclipse will be visible across much of North America, with the best views in locations where skies are clear and free from light pollution.
Key Timings (Eastern Time - ET):
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 1:12 AM (March 14, 2025)
- Total Eclipse Begins: 2:27 AM
- Maximum Eclipse (Blood Moon Phase): 3:11 AM
- Total Eclipse Ends: 3:55 AM
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 5:13 AM
For those in the Western U.S., Canada, and Pacific regions, the event will begin before midnight on March 13, 2025, and reach totality shortly after midnight.
How to Capture the Eclipse?
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye—no special glasses are needed.
To photograph the blood moon:
- Use a tripod to prevent camera shake.
- Lower the exposure settings on your phone or camera to avoid overexposing the moon’s surface.
- Binoculars or a telescope will enhance the view, revealing intricate details of the moon’s craters and surface features.
- During the totality phase, the night sky will darken, making it easier to spot stars and planets, including Spica (a bright blue star) and Regulus (a bright star in the constellation Leo).
When Is the Next Total Lunar Eclipse?
If you miss this spectacular event, the next total lunar eclipse will take place on September 7-8, 2025, but will be visible primarily from Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The next visible total lunar eclipse for the Americas will occur on March 3, 2026.
Final Thoughts
This March 2025 blood moon is a rare and stunning celestial event that will delight astronomers, photographers, and casual stargazers alike. With favorable atmospheric conditions expected, this could be one of the most striking total lunar eclipses in recent years. Be sure to mark your calendar and set your alarms for this spectacular night sky show!
