Upcoming Total Lunar Eclipse: Blood Moon on March 13, 2025

A total lunar eclipse, or “Blood Moon,” will take place on March 13, 2025, visible in the Americas and parts of Europe and Africa. The Moon will appear red due to Earth’s shadow, with totality lasting over an hour. The event emphasizes cultural significance and astronomical phenomena, followed by a partial solar eclipse later in the month.

A total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a “Blood Moon,” will occur overnight Thursday, March 13, 2025. This celestial event will be visible across the Americas, parts of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, and western Europe and Africa. During the eclipse, the Moon will appear red due to the Earth’s shadow, caused when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, allowing only filtered sunlight to reach the Moon.

The phenomenon results in a reddish hue as the sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere—a process similar to the pink or red light seen during sunrises and sunsets. Daniel Brown, an astronomer at Nottingham Trent University, noted that an increase in clouds and dust will enhance the red color. The total lunar eclipse can last about six hours, with totality lasting just over one hour. This event has been named the “Blood Worm Moon,” referencing names given to March full moons by Native Americans.

The eclipse timeline for North America begins at 1:09 AM Eastern Time, peaking during totality from 2:26 AM to 3:31 AM. In France, totality will be observed from 7:26 AM to 8:31 AM local time; however, only regions like Brittany will have visibility before the Moon sets. Conversely, New Zealand will experience only a partial view as the Moon rises. Brown expressed hope to glimpse the eclipse despite adverse weather conditions in the UK.

Despite the ominous name, Brown criticized the term “Blood Moon” for its negative connotation, originating from unfounded apocalypse theories. He stated that various cultures, such as some African societies, view lunar eclipses positively, symbolizing unity and resolution of conflicts. “An amazing story that should inspire us all at the moment,” he emphasized.

Following this event, another total lunar eclipse is anticipated in September. The upcoming eclipse on Thursday is classified as a “Micromoon”; the Moon will be farther from Earth, appearing about seven percent smaller. This contrasts with the larger appearance of a “Supermoon,” previously seen in 2022. A partial solar eclipse is also scheduled to occur on March 29, 2025, which will necessitate special viewing safety precautions for observers.

The upcoming total lunar eclipse on March 13, 2025, presents a significant astronomical event for observers in multiple regions. Its phenomena will showcase the Moon adopting a reddish hue when completely in Earth’s shadow. Visibility varies globally, and despite the negative connotations associated with the term “Blood Moon,” many cultures embrace the eclipse as a way to symbolize unity. Skywatchers should also prepare for safety during the upcoming partial solar eclipse to occur later this month.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com