Upcoming Total Lunar Eclipses: Blood Moons in 2025 and 2026 – When and Where to Watch
Between 2025 and 2026, skywatchers will have the opportunity to witness two remarkable total lunar eclipses, commonly known as “Blood Moons” due to the reddish hue the Moon takes on during totality.
When is the next Total Lunar Eclipse?
September 7–8, 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse (observable from eastern Africa, Asia, and Australia)
On the night of September 7 into the early hours of September 8, 2025, a total lunar eclipse will be visible across various regions:
- Visibility: This eclipse will be fully observable from eastern Africa, Asia, and Australia. Observers in Europe and western Africa will see the eclipse during moonrise, while those in the central Pacific Ocean will witness it during moonset.
- Duration: The totality phase, where the Moon is entirely within Earth's umbral shadow, will last approximately 82 minutes. [Wikipedia]
This event provides an excellent viewing opportunity for those in the Eastern Hemisphere. [TimeAndDate.com]
March 2–3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse (observable over northeastern Asia, northwestern North America, and the central Pacific Ocean)
The subsequent total lunar eclipse will occur on the night of March 2 into March 3, 2026, and will be visible from different parts of the world:
- Visibility: This eclipse will be fully visible over northeastern Asia, northwestern North America, and the central Pacific Ocean. Observers in Asia and Australia will see the eclipse during moonrise, while those in North and South America will witness it during moonset. [Wikipedia]
- Duration: The totality phase of this eclipse will last approximately 58 minutes.
This eclipse offers a splendid viewing experience, especially for those in North America.
Understanding Total Lunar Eclipses
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting Earth's shadow over the Moon. During totality, the Moon often appears reddish due to Earth's atmosphere filtering out shorter-wavelength blue light, leaving the longer-wavelength red and orange light to illuminate the Moon—a phenomenon that gives rise to the term "Blood Moon."
Viewing Tips
- Timing: Check local times for the start, peak, and end of the eclipse phases to ensure you don't miss the event.
- Location: Find a viewing spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky, away from city lights, to enhance visibility.
- Equipment: While lunar eclipses are visible to the naked eye, using binoculars or a telescope can provide a more detailed view.
Mark your calendars for these celestial events and enjoy the spectacular display of the cosmos!