A spectacular blood moon total lunar eclipse will be visible tonight, offering skywatchers a stunning celestial event. Learn when and where to watch, weather forecasts, and what makes this eclipse special.
Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse Tonight: Everything You Need to Know
Skywatchers, get ready! A breathtaking total lunar eclipse, also known as a blood moon, will take place tonight, March 13, 2025. During this celestial event, the Earth’s shadow will completely cover the Moon, turning it a deep red hue.
This is one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year, and it will be visible across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Here’s everything you need to know about the timing, visibility, and science behind the blood moon.
What Time to Watch the Blood Moon Eclipse?
The total lunar eclipse will unfold in several phases:
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 9:12 PM ET
- Partial Eclipse Starts: 10:18 PM ET
- Total Eclipse Begins (Blood Moon): 11:32 PM ET
- Maximum Eclipse: 12:11 AM ET (March 14)
- Total Eclipse Ends: 12:52 AM ET
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 2:07 AM ET
The entire event will last for nearly five hours, with the total eclipse phase (when the Moon turns red) lasting about 80 minutes.
Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible?
The best places to watch the total lunar eclipse include:
- United States and Canada (best visibility on the East Coast)
- Most of Europe
- Parts of Asia and Africa
For those in South America and the western U.S., the eclipse will still be visible but may occur earlier in the evening or near moonset.
Why Does the Moon Turn Red?
During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight from directly reaching the lunar surface. Instead, the Moon is illuminated by scattered sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere, filtering out blue light and leaving behind a reddish glow—hence the name “blood moon.”
This reddish color can vary depending on the amount of dust, pollution, or volcanic ash in Earth’s atmosphere.
Weather Forecast for Tonight’s Eclipse
According to Space.com, the weather forecast for viewing conditions varies across the U.S.:
- Clear skies: Most of the East Coast, Midwest, and parts of Europe
- Partly cloudy: Southern U.S. and some areas of the West Coast
- Cloudy with limited visibility: Pacific Northwest and some areas in the central U.S.
If clouds block your view, don’t worry! NASA and other space agencies will provide live streams of the event, so you can watch the eclipse online.
How to Watch the Eclipse
- Find a dark location away from city lights for the best view.
- No special equipment is needed—just your eyes! But binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience.
- Use NASA’s live stream if your location has poor weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
Tonight’s blood moon total lunar eclipse is a must-see event for space enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. Whether you watch it from your backyard or online, this rare celestial phenomenon is a reminder of the beauty of the universe.
Don’t miss out—set your alarms, grab a warm blanket, and look up!