Anticipated events during the 'blood moon' total lunar eclipse on September 7-8

Total Lunar Eclipse to Light Up the Skies on September 7-8

A spectacular celestial event is set to captivate stargazers across the globe on September 7-8, as a total lunar eclipse takes place. This rare occurrence will be fully visible in large parts of Asia, West Australia, and Eastern Europe, while other regions like Spain and Norway will only witness a partial eclipse.

The moon's shadowed regions will adopt a deep red-brown color when 75% of the lunar surface is covered by Earth's umbra. As the event unfolds, Earth's silhouette will consume the upper left extreme of the lunar disk within minutes of the onset of the umbral phase. The lunar disk will be bathed in Earth's shadow, causing it to glow a deep red.

The moon will enter Earth's umbra at 12:27 p.m. EDT (1627 GMT) on Sept. 7. The crescendo of the eclipse, marking the start of totality and the transformation of the moon into a "blood moon," will begin at 1:30 p.m. EDT (1730 GMT). During totality, the lower portion of the lunar disk around Mare Nubium may appear slightly lighter than the upper region.

Totality will last for approximately 82 minutes according to Time and Date, with Earth's umbra beginning to slip from the lunar disk at 2:52 p.m. EDT (1852 GMT). The subtle shading of the lunar surface during this phase becomes perceptible as a slight darkening on the upper left of the lunar disk about an hour after the start of the initial penumbral phase.

The total lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025, will be visible in Asia, western Australia, and eastern Europe. Other countries like Spain and Norway will witness only a partial eclipse. The partial solar eclipse will occur on Sept. 21, visible from parts of southern Australia, Pacific islands, and Antarctica.

It is important to note that the eclipse can be safely viewed through a telescope, binoculars, or with the naked eye. No specialized eclipse glasses or filters are needed to protect eyesight during a lunar eclipse. If outside the viewing area or unable to view live, the eclipse can be watched on free livestreams on Sept. 7.

This celestial event occurs when Earth passes between the moon and sun, casting its umbral and penumbral shadows on the lunar surface. The umbral shadow seen during the lunar eclipse will be sharper than the penumbral phase, creating an awe-inspiring sight in the night sky.

So, mark your calendars for September 7-8, 2025, and prepare to witness this breathtaking celestial spectacle. Whether you're an avid stargazer or simply fascinated by the mysteries of the universe, this total lunar eclipse is an event not to be missed!