As stargazers prepare for a celestial event, a total lunar eclipse, also known as a “blood moon,” will grace the skies on **September 7-8, 2025**. This phenomenon occurs when Earth aligns perfectly between the moon and the sun, casting its shadow over the lunar surface. Those fortunate to have clear skies will witness the moon transform into a striking rusty red hue during the totality phase.
The total lunar eclipse will begin at **11:28 a.m. (1528 GMT)** on **September 7**, with totality commencing at **1:30 p.m. ET (1730 GMT)**. This phase will last for an impressive **82 minutes**, providing ample opportunity for both amateur and professional astronomers to capture stunning images. While the exact timing of the eclipse phases will be consistent globally, visibility will depend on regional conditions, particularly whether the moon is above the horizon.
Viewing Opportunities and Global Impact
Approximately **5.8 billion people**—roughly **76% of the world’s population**—across regions such as **Australia, Asia, Africa**, and **eastern Europe** will be able to witness the entire event. In contrast, viewers in the **Americas** will unfortunately miss this spectacular occurrence, as the moon will remain below the horizon throughout the eclipse. Meanwhile, individuals in countries like the **U.K.**, **Spain**, and **Brazil** will have the chance to see parts of the eclipse, although they may miss totality.
The crimson glow observed during a total lunar eclipse is attributed to **Rayleigh scattering**, a process where shorter blue wavelengths of sunlight are scattered away by particles in Earth’s atmosphere. This allows the longer red wavelengths to pass through, illuminating the moon with a deep red color. The term “blood moon” originates from this striking appearance, captivating the attention of observers worldwide.
Preparation for Stargazers
In the week leading up to the eclipse, enthusiasts are encouraged to identify their ideal viewing locations. This preparation allows photographers to align their shots of the eclipsed moon with notable landmarks, while casual observers can ensure an unobstructed view. Those unable to secure a good spot or facing poor weather conditions need not worry. **Space.com** will provide a livestream of the event, allowing viewers to enjoy the eclipse from the comfort of their homes.
There is no risk to eyesight when observing a total lunar eclipse, unlike during a solar eclipse where protective measures are required. Stargazers can freely use telescopes, binoculars, or simply their eyes to take in the spectacle. For those looking to capture the event, resources are available on how to photograph a lunar eclipse effectively, as well as recommendations for cameras and lenses suitable for astrophotography.
As anticipation builds, the upcoming blood moon serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the universe. Those interested in sharing their eclipse photographs can send submissions to **Space.com**, contributing to a collective appreciation of this extraordinary astronomical event.