Tonight, March 13th, 2025, a total lunar eclipse, which is a rare astronomical phenomenon also referred to as a blood moon, will occur, with the moon glowing a deep shade of red. Even more–it’s the first time it’s happening in almost two and a half years, so you certainly won’t want to miss it!
Of course, as with any astronomical phenomenon, you’ll need clear skies and the right location to witness it for yourself, but we’re here to spill everything you need to know about the total lunar eclipse.
What is a total lunar eclipse?
According to NASA, a total lunar eclipse is when the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When this happens, the Earth’s shadow causes the moon to appear red-orange, hence why it’s sometimes called a blood moon. NASA adds that the more dust or clouds in Earth’s atmosphere during the eclipse, the redder the moon appears.
Do I need any special equipment to view the blood moon?
Lucky for us, you don’t need any special equipment to observe a total lunar eclipse! NASA does note, though, that binoculars or a telescope will enhance your view.
Is it safe to look at a total lunar eclipse?
Yes! Unlike during a solar eclipse, it’s totally safe to look at the moon during the entire lunar eclipse, so no eye protection is needed.
When will the total lunar eclipse happen?
Here’s a full breakdown of the total lunar eclipse schedule, occurring the night of March 13th into March 14th:
- 11:57 pm EST – Penumbral eclipse begins (the moon enters the outer part of Earth’s shadow, the penumbra, and begins to subtly dim)
- 1:09 am EST – Partial eclipse begins (the moon begins to enter Earth’s umbra and will look like a bite is being taken out of it)
- 2:26 am EST – Totality begins (the entire moon is now in the Earth’s umbra and is tinted a coppery red)
- 3:31 am EST – Totality ends (as the moon exits Earth’s umbra, the red color fades)
- 4:47am EST – Partial eclipse ends (the whole moon is in Earth’s penumbra, but again, the dimming is subtle)
- 6 am EST – Penumbral eclipse ends (the eclipse is over)
How long does the total lunar eclipse last?
The entire event will last six hours and three minutes. Totality alone–the most dramatic part of the show–will last over an hour.
How can I best observe the total lunar eclipse in NYC?
Time and Date writes that just over one billion people in the U.S., Canada, and the rest of North and South America are perfectly situated to witness the spectacle–under clear skies, of course! The best viewing conditions are a dark environment away from bright lights and the city. We suggest heading to one of the city’s many parks or beaches, and you can always check this light pollution map to find a darker area close by.
If you’re not able to view the eclipse while it’s going down, Time & Date will be live streaming the celestial phenomenon for your viewing pleasure beginning 12 am EST.
How rare are total lunar eclipses?
Total lunar eclipses occur, on average, once every 2.5 years. So while they’re not the most rare celestial event there is, you still do have to wait some time in between each one. Compared to a regular lunar eclipse, those occur about every six months.
When is the next total lunar eclipse?
After March 13-14, the next total lunar eclipse will occur in about 2.5 years.
What else can I observe on the night of the total lunar eclipse?
As if the total lunar eclipse wasn’t a treat enough, it won’t be the only spectacle visible in our sky that night! If you look to the western sky you’ll also get a glimpse of Jupiter and Mars. As Earth’s shadow dims the moon’s glow, constellations may become more visible.