A spectacular total lunar eclipse will take place on **September 7-8, 2025**, allowing observers in various regions to see the moon transform into a deep red “blood moon.” This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes between the moon and the sun, casting a shadow that bathes the lunar disk in a dramatic hue. The event is expected to be visible entirely across parts of Asia, western Australia, and eastern Europe, while locations such as Spain and Norway will experience only a partial eclipse.
The lunar eclipse will unfold through several distinct phases, each offering unique viewing opportunities. Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective eyewear, lunar eclipses can be safely observed with the naked eye, telescopes, or binoculars, making them accessible to many.
Phases of the Total Lunar Eclipse
The first phase begins at **11:28 a.m. EDT (1528 GMT)** on **September 7**, when the moon enters Earth’s penumbra, the outer part of its shadow. During this initial stage, observers may notice a subtle shading on the upper left of the lunar disk. This gentle darkening will gradually develop over the next hour as the penumbral phase progresses.
At **12:27 p.m. EDT (1627 GMT)**, the moon will begin to drift into the umbra, Earth’s inner shadow. This marks the start of the partial eclipse, where the shadow becomes more pronounced and sharply defined. As the umbral shadow advances, observers will see a significant portion of the lunar disk obscured, potentially taking on a reddish hue due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere.
The totality phase, which is the highlight of the eclipse, will commence at **1:30 p.m. EDT (1730 GMT)**. At this moment, the last sliver of the moon will fall into the umbra, transforming it into a breathtaking blood moon. This phase will last for approximately **82 minutes**, with the maximum eclipse occurring at **2:11 p.m. EDT (1811 GMT)**. The brightness and color of the moon during totality will vary based on atmospheric conditions, including dust levels.
Observers may notice that the lower portion of the lunar disk, particularly around **Mare Nubium** (the Sea of Clouds), appears slightly lighter than the upper portion, which resides deeper within Earth’s shadow.
Completing the Eclipse
As the totality phase ends, Earth’s umbra will begin to recede from the lunar surface at **2:52 p.m. EDT (1852 GMT)**. A bright crescent will emerge on the left edge of the moon, signaling the return to a partial eclipse that will last over an hour. The penumbral phase will conclude at **4:55 p.m. EDT (2055 GMT)**, marking the end of the lunar eclipse.
This total lunar eclipse will precede a partial solar eclipse occurring on **September 21, 2025**, which will be observable from parts of southern Australia and various Pacific islands.
For those unable to view the eclipse in person, numerous free livestreams will be available online, providing a chance to experience this celestial event from anywhere in the world.
As anticipation builds for the blood moon, skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare for a stunning display that showcases the beauty of our universe.