It will be the longest total eclipse since 2022
This month is set to bring plenty of exciting opportunities for stargazers, particularly with the blood moon total lunar eclipse due to take place tonight (Sunday, September 7).
Observers in the UK and western Europe may glimpse totality as the moon ascends, although the incredible full display sadly won’t be visible to us. This eclipse will be the most extended total eclipse since 2022 and is certain to be highlighted in every astronomy lover’s calendar.
Unfortunately, stargazing (or in this case, moongazing) requires dark conditions to be done at its best – so London isn’t the best place to do it. But don’t be totally disheartened – here’s everything aspiring astronomers need to know to be in with the best chance of catching a glimpse.
What causes a total lunar eclipse?
When outlining what makes up a total lunar eclipse, NASA states: “The Moon moves into the inner part of Earth’s shadow, or the umbra. Some of the sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere reaches the Moon’s surface, lighting it dimly.”
They continue: “Colours with shorter wavelengths ― the blues and violets ― scatter more easily than colours with longer wavelengths, like red and orange. Because these longer wavelengths make it through Earth’s atmosphere, and the shorter wavelengths have scattered away, the Moon appears orangish or reddish.”
September’s full moon is usually known as the Corn Moon, which means this full moon will simultaneously be a total lunar eclipse, forming what’s referred to as a “Corn Moon eclipse.”
Where will the eclipse be visible from?
The prime viewing spots for the complete September 7, 2025 Blood Moon total lunar eclipse will span Asia, western Australia and the easternmost parts of Africa. This astronomical wonder can additionally be observed in Antarctica, the western Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean, according to the Liverpool Echo. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon often takes on a deep, dark red hue as it’s illuminated by light that has journeyed through Earth’s atmosphere and been refracted towards the Moon.
Royal Museums Greenwich (RMG) explained that tonight, UK observers will be in for a treat as the Moon will rise just in time for them to witness this total lunar eclipse. The peak of the event is expected at 7.33pm BST from the UK, with the true maximum of the eclipse occurring at 7.11pm when the Moon is still below the horizon.
Following this, the Moon will “gradually move out of Earth’s umbra” and penumbra until 9.55pm. As the Moon will be situated low on the horizon and may prove difficult to spot, RMG suggests finding a high vantage point with a clear view towards the East for the best viewing experience.
According to BBC Weather, the skies above London should be clear enough to view the eclipse this evening, with clouds clearing up at around 7pm.
How common are lunar eclipses?
Lunar eclipses occur between two to five times annually, with a total lunar eclipse happening at least twice every three years. Considering that Earth is roughly four times wider than the Moon, its shadow can cover the moon for up to five hours depending on conditions.
NASA has provided guidance on effective stargazing methods, recommending that observers seek out dark skies well away from urban lighting to spot additional stars. The space agency explains: “Getting farther way from population centres is key. There are some other factors that can enhance your stargazing. Being at higher altitude helps, because you’ll be above the dense air at low altitudes that contains hazes, fog, and smoke that mask your view of the stars.”
Is it safe to look at a lunar eclipse?
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses present no risk when viewed with the naked eye. This occurs because lunar eclipses simply reflect sunlight – they never shine more brightly than a full Moon.
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