On the night of September 7, 2025, stargazers around the world are treated to a spectacular event: a Full Moon coinciding with a total lunar eclipse. This rare combination offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to observe the moon in its full glory, as it will be illuminated completely from our perspective on Earth.
According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, the Full Moon today means that 100% of the moon’s surface will be visible. As the moon rises, the sky will brighten, making it an ideal time for viewing. Those looking to explore the moon’s surface can expect to see notable features such as the **Aristarchus Plateau**, **Copernicus Crater**, and **Mare Crisium** with the naked eye. For a closer look at the **Grimaldi Basin** and **Gassendi Crater**, binoculars are recommended, while a telescope will provide an even more detailed view of the **Fra Mauro Highlands**.
While the total lunar eclipse will create a dramatic visual spectacle, it will not be visible from the Americas. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the moon, casting a shadow that transforms the moon into a deep red hue, often referred to as a “blood moon.”
Understanding Moon Phases
Moon phases are determined by the moon’s orbit around the Earth, which takes approximately **29.5 days** to complete. This cycle adjusts the angles between the Sun, moon, and Earth, causing the varying appearances of the moon. The phases include eight distinct stages:
– **New Moon**: The moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, rendering it invisible.
– **Waxing Crescent**: A small sliver of light appears on the right side.
– **First Quarter**: Half of the moon is illuminated on the right side, creating a half-moon appearance.
– **Waxing Gibbous**: More than half of the moon is lit but not yet fully illuminated.
– **Full Moon**: The entire face of the moon is visible and completely illuminated.
– **Waning Gibbous**: The moon begins to lose light on the right side.
– **Last Quarter**: Another half-moon phase, but the left side is now illuminated.
– **Waning Crescent**: A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before the moon returns to darkness.
The next opportunity to observe a Full Moon will occur on **October 6, 2025**. As lunar events continue to captivate sky watchers, understanding the cycles and phases of the moon enhances the experience of these celestial occurrences.