Get ready for a celestial spectacle! A total lunar eclipse will grace the night sky Thursday night into Friday morning, turning the moon a dramatic red color for viewers across the Western Hemisphere.
According to The Associated Press, the prime viewing locations will be in North America and South America. Observers in parts of Africa and Europe may also catch a glimpse of the event, though the setting of the moon may make it more difficult to see.
Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth positions itself directly between the sun and moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. In a total lunar eclipse, the moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow. Instead of disappearing entirely, the moon takes on a reddish hue due to sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere, a phenomenon often referred to as a “blood moon.”
According to NASA, lunar and solar eclipses happen between four and seven times each year. A partial lunar eclipse was visible last September in the Americas, Africa, and Europe. The last total lunar eclipse occurred in 2022.
This upcoming total lunar eclipse will last for approximately one hour, beginning at 2:26 a.m. Eastern time on Friday morning. The peak of the eclipse, when the moon appears darkest red, will be around 3:00 a.m. Eastern time.
To witness this breathtaking sight, simply step outside and look up at the sky. No special equipment like eclipse glasses is required, making it an accessible event for everyone.
If weather or other circumstances prevent you from seeing this eclipse, don’t despair! Another total lunar eclipse is slated for September 7, visible across parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Skywatchers in the Americas will have to wait a little longer for their next total lunar eclipse experience, expected in March 2026.
