Blood Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse Visible in the US

A Rare Celestial Event: Blood Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse will grace the night sky late Thursday and early Friday, offering skywatchers a rare opportunity to witness a Blood Moon. This will be the only lunar eclipse visible from the US this year and the first total lunar eclipse since November 2022. The celestial event will span approximately six hours, with prime viewing across North and South America, though it will be visible throughout the Western Hemisphere.

What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, causing the Moon to pass through Earth’s darkest shadow. As this happens, the Moon takes on a reddish or copper hue, earning the name Blood Moon. The striking color results from sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere, casting the colors of sunrises and sunsets onto the Moon.

Lunar Eclipse in the US: Timings and How to Watch

Key Eclipse Phases and Timings

• Penumbral Phase: Begins at 11:57 PM EDT (8:57 PM PDT) on Thursday.
• Partial Eclipse: Starts at 1:09 AM EDT (10:09 PM PDT) on Friday, appearing as if a “bite” has been taken out of the Moon.
• Totality: Occurs at 2:26 AM EDT (11:26 PM PDT), when the Moon will glow red.
• Totality Ends: At 3:31 AM EDT (12:31 AM PDT), and the eclipse will conclude by sunrise.

Best Viewing Tips

• Unlike a solar eclipse, no special glasses are required—just step outside and look up.
• Viewing from a dark location away from city lights will provide the best experience.
• Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view.
• If weather conditions are unfavorable, websites like Timeanddate.com will livestream the event starting at 1 AM EDT on Friday.

The Worm Moon

This month’s full Moon, known as the Worm Moon, will reach peak illumination at 2:55 AM EDT on Friday and will appear full for three nights. The name originates from the Maine Farmers’ Almanac, which documented Native American names for full moons in the 1930s.

What Not to Do During the Blood Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t Expect Instant Color Changes – The Moon’s transition to red is gradual, so be patient.
• Avoid Bright Lights – Artificial lights from street lamps, phone screens, or indoor sources can diminish visibility. Seek a dark viewing spot for the best experience.
• Don’t Use Solar Eclipse Glasses – Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye.
• Don’t Rely Only on the Naked Eye – While visible without equipment, binoculars or a telescope can enhance details.
• Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute – Although lunar eclipses last for hours, the total eclipse phase is shorter. Be prepared to catch the Blood Moon at its peak.

iPhone 16e Comparing With a mid-range Android Smartphone

Upcoming Lunar and Solar Eclipses

Next Total Lunar Eclipse

The next total lunar eclipse will occur on September 7, 2025, visible in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The US won’t witness another total lunar eclipse until March 3, 2026.

Upcoming Solar Eclipses

Looking ahead, a partial solar eclipse will take place on March 29, 2025, visible from multiple continents, followed by another on September 21, 2025. Keep an eye on the sky for these upcoming astronomical wonders!

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/blood-moon-and-total-lunar-eclipse-visible-in-the-us-time-how-to-watch-and-what-not-to-do/articleshow/119009935.cms