A rare total lunar eclipse, also known as a “Blood Moon”, will be visible this week. Find out the exact times, key viewing locations, and where to live stream the breathtaking celestial event.
Skywatchers around the globe are in for a celestial treat this week as a rare and unusually long total lunar eclipse, often called a “Blood Moon”, will grace the night sky.
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the Moon will pass through the Earth’s shadow, turning a spectacular crimson red and offering a breathtaking show for billions of people across multiple continents.
This particular lunar eclipse stands out for its impressive duration and near-global visibility.
The total phase, when the Moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow, is expected to last a remarkable 82 minutes, making it one of the longest and most significant astronomical events of the decade.
The eclipse will be visible, in part or in its entirety, to virtually the entire global population, uniting stargazers in a shared, awe-inspiring moment.
The Science Behind the ‘Blood Moon’
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface.
A total lunar eclipse, or “Blood Moon”, happens when the Moon is fully covered by the darkest, central part of Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra.
The captivating reddish-orange hue that gives the eclipse its popular name is a result of a phenomenon known as Rayleigh scattering.
As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter-wavelength blue light is scattered away, while longer-wavelength red and orange light is filtered and bent towards the Moon.
This is the same effect that causes the beautiful red and orange colours we see during sunrises and sunsets.10
When to Watch and Who Gets the Best View
The total lunar eclipse will unfold over several hours, with different phases offering unique views. For viewers in the Americas, particularly the continental United States, the eclipse will not be visible, as it will be daytime. However, regions of Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa are in for a spectacular show.
Here is a general timeline of the event in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC):
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 15:42 UTC
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 16:39 UTC
- Total Eclipse Begins (Blood Moon): 17:31 UTC
- Maximum Eclipse: 18:11 UTC
- Total Eclipse Ends: 18:52 UTC
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 19:44 UTC
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 20:41 UTC
For local times, viewers should check with official astronomical websites like NASA or TimeAndDate.com for precise timings.
For example, in London, the eclipse will be visible after the moonrise at 7:30 PM BST, while in Mumbai, the totality begins at 11:00 PM IST on Sunday.
How to Live Stream the Celestial Event
For those in regions where the eclipse is not visible or for anyone who wants to get a closer look, several organizations will be live streaming the event.
- The Virtual Telescope Project: This project will host a free livestream from its robotic telescopes in Manciano, Italy, providing stunning, close-up views of the eclipse as it unfolds.
- TimeAndDate.com: The popular astronomy website will host a professional broadcast featuring live views from multiple locations around the world, along with expert commentary.
- NASA and Other Observatories: Many NASA-affiliated observatories and local astronomy clubs will host their own live streams on platforms like YouTube and Facebook, often with live commentary from astronomers.
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. No special equipment is needed, but using a pair of binoculars or a telescope can offer a more detailed and immersive experience, revealing the unique colors and surface features of the eclipsed Moon.
The ideal viewing location is a spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the night sky and minimal light pollution.
Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or a casual observer, the September 2025 total lunar eclipse is a can’t-miss event that serves as a beautiful reminder of the cosmic cycles that govern our solar system.
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