On the night of September 7–8, 2025, skywatchers across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia will witness a breathtaking total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a Blood Moon. This eclipse is set apart by its exceptional duration, with the total phase lasting about 82 minutes, making it one of the longest total lunar eclipses in the past 10 years.
The extended length of this celestial spectacle is due to two rare factors: the Moon’s slower movement near apogee (its farthest point from Earth) and its central passage through Earth’s umbra, the darkest part of the shadow. This perfect alignment offers observers a prolonged and unforgettable view of the Moon glowing in shades of deep red and copper.
Why the Moon Turns Red: The Science Behind the Blood Moon
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. During a total eclipse, the Moon passes fully into the umbra and darkens dramatically. Instead of vanishing, it takes on a reddish hue because of Rayleigh scattering. As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths (blue and green) scatter away, while longer red wavelengths bend around the Earth to light up the Moon. This same effect makes sunsets and sunrises appear red.
Eclipse Timings for India (IST) – September 7–8, 2025
- Penumbral eclipse begins: 8:58 PM (Sep 7)
- Partial eclipse begins: 9:57 PM
- Total eclipse begins (Blood Moon): 11:00 PM
- Maximum eclipse: 11:41 PM
- Total eclipse ends: 12:22 AM (Sep 8)
- Partial eclipse ends: 1:26 AM
- Penumbral eclipse ends: 2:25 AM
With the Moon high in the sky, Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru will provide ideal viewing conditions.
Global Visibility
- Best visibility: Asia, Africa, Australia, Central & Eastern Europe
- Partial visibility: Eastern Europe, New Zealand, Western Canada, Alaska
- Not visible: Most of North America, Eastern South America
For regions missing out, astronomy observatories will stream the event live worldwide.
Why the September 2025 Eclipse is Special
- One of the longest in 10 years – 82 minutes of totality
- Near-apogee alignment slows the Moon’s motion, prolonging the eclipse
- Central path through Earth’s shadow makes the event deeper and darker
- Broad visibility – nearly 87% of the world’s population will see at least part of the eclipse
How to Watch the Blood Moon
- No special gear needed – safe to view with the naked eye
- Best viewing – open skies away from city lights
- Photography tips – use a telephoto lens or telescope for close-ups; smartphones can also capture the red glow under clear skies
A Celestial Treat for Billions
The September 7–8, 2025 Blood Moon will not only be a dazzling astronomical event but also a rare opportunity for billions to connect with the cosmos. With its unusual duration, striking colors, and wide visibility, this eclipse promises to be one of the most memorable skywatching events of the decade.
