Visibility Of The 'Blood Moon' Total Lunar Eclipse This Month

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The Upcoming Total Lunar Eclipse on March 13-14, 2025

The night sky will showcase a spectacular total lunar eclipse on March 13-14, 2025. This event marks the first total lunar eclipse since 2022, allowing skywatchers to witness the moon slipping into Earth’s shadow. Lasting approximately 65 minutes, the moon will exhibit a deep reddish color, often referred to as a “blood moon” during this transformation.

What to Expect from the Eclipse

The eclipse will be visible to those located on Earth’s night side, and although it will occur at a specific universal time, the best views will likely be enjoyed from North and South America. Observers in parts of Europe might catch the beginning of the event during moonset, while viewers in East Asia will see it as the moon rises. The most striking phase, known as totality, will occur over the Pacific Ocean, but it will be an unforgettable experience for many across the Americas.

You can follow the event live on platforms like Space.com, with additional details provided as the date approaches. Unlike solar eclipses, watching a lunar eclipse is completely safe, as there is no harm in looking at the moon throughout all phases of the eclipse. Additionally, lunar eclipses unfold over several hours, allowing plenty of time for observers to appreciate the celestial display.

Timing of the Eclipse

The total lunar eclipse will take place between 11:57 p.m. and 6 a.m. EDT (03:57 to 10:00 UTC). The crucial moment of totality is expected between 2:26 a.m. and 3:31 a.m. EDT (06:26 to 07:31 UTC). Here’s a breakdown of the event:

**Penumbral Phase:** 11:57 p.m. – 1:09 a.m. EDT (03:57 – 05:09 UTC)
**Partial Phase:** 1:09 a.m. – 2:26 a.m. EDT (05:09 – 06:26 UTC)
**Totality:** 2:26 a.m. – 3:31 a.m. EDT (06:26 – 07:31 UTC)
**Partial Phase:** 3:31 a.m. – 4:47 a.m. EDT (07:31 – 08:47 UTC)
**Penumbral Phase:** 4:47 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. EDT (08:47 – 10:00 UTC)

Where to Watch the Lunar Eclipse

Visibility Across Regions

The 2025 total lunar eclipse will be particularly visible across the Americas. Here’s how visibility will vary by region:

North America: All 50 U.S. states, Canada, and Mexico will see the entire event.
South America: Most of the continent, especially Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, will experience totality after midnight on March 14.
Europe: Western Europe, including Spain and the U.K., might glimpse totality during moonset early on March 14.
Africa: Some areas, like Cape Verde and Morocco, will also witness totality just before moonset.
Oceania: New Zealand will see the eclipse during its later stages as the moon rises.

Eclipse Timings in the U.S.

In the United States, viewers will enjoy excellent visibility across all time zones. Notably, Hawaii and parts of Alaska will experience only the beginning of the initial penumbral phase. Here are some key eclipse timings:

Eastern Time: 11:57 p.m. EDT (penumbral) – 6:00 a.m. EDT (end)
Central Time: 10:57 p.m. CDT (penumbral) – 5:00 a.m. CDT (end)
Mountain Time: 9:57 p.m. MDT (penumbral) – 4:00 a.m. MDT (end)
Pacific Time: 8:57 p.m. PDT (penumbral) – 3:00 a.m. PDT (end)
Alaska Time: 7:57 p.m. AKDT (penumbral) – 2:00 a.m. AKDT (end)
Hawaii Time: 6:32 p.m. HST (moonrise) – midnight HST (end)

Lunar Eclipse Visibility in Europe

Unfortunately, Europe will have a less favorable view of the eclipse. In London, the penumbral phase starts at 3:47 a.m. GMT, but totality occurs just before the moon sets at 6:22 a.m. GMT. Locations more to the west, like Cardiff and Dublin, will have marginally better views, with totality happening shortly before moonset.

Weather Considerations for the Eclipse

Clear skies are vital for viewing the lunar eclipse, as locations with the moon high in the sky will have the best visibility. Areas such as Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, much of Mexico, and parts of South America have historically lower cloud coverage in March. Contrarily, cloud cover is unpredictable in Europe, making it challenging to plan for good viewing conditions.

In summary, the total lunar eclipse on March 13-14, 2025, promises to be an enchanting spectacle. Whether you’re in North or South America, you will likely have an excellent opportunity to witness this astronomical event. Remember to check the weather forecast for optimal viewing, and enjoy the show!