Blood Moon September 2025: 82-minute total eclipse, one of the longest and most widely seen celestial shows of the decade—here’s how to watch it

The night sky is set to put on a spectacular show. On September 7–8, 2025, a total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, will paint the Moon in a deep red or copper hue.

Unlike fleeting meteor showers, this event will last for over an hour, giving skywatchers plenty of time to enjoy or capture the celestial display.

The bad news first: the United States won’t see this eclipse directly. The timing of Earth’s shadow means the entire show unfolds while North and South America are in daylight.

The good news? Asia, Australia, eastern Africa, and much of Europe are in prime position. For those regions, the Blood Moon will rise high in the night sky, painting a dramatic red spectacle visible to the naked eye.

NASA’s projections show the best seats belong to countries like India, China, Japan, Australia, and parts of Africa and Europe. This wide visibility explains why astronomers call it “one of the most widely seen celestial shows of the decade.”

It’s the longest total lunar eclipse of 2025 and the second—and final—one this year, making it a rare opportunity for enthusiasts, photographers, and casual stargazers alike.

What is a Blood Moon and why does the Moon turn red?

A Blood Moon occurs during a total lunar eclipse. This happens when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow over the lunar surface. But the Moon doesn’t disappear into darkness. Instead, it takes on a reddish glow.

This dramatic color is caused by Earth’s atmosphere filtering sunlight. Shorter blue wavelengths scatter, while longer red wavelengths bend into Earth’s shadow, illuminating the Moon with a warm, reddish tint. Beyond its beauty, this effect also gives scientists clues about atmospheric conditions such as dust, pollution, and cloud density.

When will the Eclipse happen and how long will it last?

The 2025 Blood Moon is notable not just for its color but also for its extended duration. For U.S. skywatchers, those hours mean direct viewing is impossible. But live-streams will make the event accessible in real time. Key timings are:


Totality lasts around 82 minutes, longer than the average lunar eclipse, which usually lasts 60–70 minutes. This gives observers extra time to soak in the event, take photographs, or simply watch the Moon slowly change color.

How can people in the USA watch the September 2025 Blood Moon?

Several astronomy groups have confirmed they will broadcast the entire event:

• TimeandDate.com: streaming the full sequence starting around 12 p.m. EDT.
  
  
• Virtual Telescope Project (Italy): going live from 1:45 p.m. EDT, covering the eclipse as it unfolds over Europe.
  
  
• NASA and local observatories: expected to share feeds and real-time imaging.
  
  

For Americans, this is the best option — a chance to follow the eclipse live with commentary, data visuals, and multiple telescopic views.

Where in the world will the Blood Moon be visible?

Visibility depends on the time of day and horizon in your location. For this eclipse:

• Asia and Australia: Entire eclipse visible from start to finish.
  
  
• Eastern Africa: Clear visibility, especially during totality.
  
  
• Europe: Moon rises already in eclipse, so viewers may catch the later stages.
  
  
• North and South America: Not visible due to daytime conditions.

Do i need special glasses to watch a Lunar Eclipse?

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. You won’t need special glasses or filters. However, if you want more detail:

• Binoculars or a small telescope can reveal lunar craters and surface changes during totality.
  
  
• Find a dark spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, especially in areas where the Moon rises during the eclipse.
  
  
• Check weather conditions—clouds can completely block the view.
  
  

For those unable to watch in person, livestreams will be available online, ensuring everyone can enjoy the spectacle.

Why is this Eclipse special?

This Blood Moon is remarkable for several reasons:

• Longest total lunar eclipse of 2025: Totality lasts about 82 minutes.
  
  
• Scientific significance: Changes in the Moon’s color provide insights into Earth’s atmosphere.
  
  
• Cultural impact: Lunar eclipses have historically inspired myths, rituals, and celebrations. This eclipse coincides with the early September Harvest Moon, a time of traditional harvest festivals.
  
  
• Rarity for North America: Observers there will have to wait until March 2–3, 2026 for the next total lunar eclipse visible in their region.
  
  

It’s not just an astronomical event—it’s a global phenomenon, offering beauty, science, and cultural connection.

FAQs:

Q1: When can I see the Blood Moon in India?
A: Totality will be visible from around 11:00 PM IST on September 7 to 12:22 AM IST on September 8.

Q2: Do I need special glasses to watch the lunar eclipse?
A: No special glasses are needed; it’s completely safe to view with the naked eye.