What you need to know about the 'Blood Moon' lunar eclipse

A breathtaking Blood Moon will grace the skies starting Thursday night, offering a stunning total lunar eclipse visible across North and South America — the first of its kind since 2022.

This rare cosmic event isn’t just for seasoned astronomers; you won’t need any special equipment — just your eyes and a clear sky. The eclipse will also be visible in parts of Western Europe, Africa, and even as far as New Zealand.

What makes it a 'Blood Moon?'

A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves between the Moon and the Sun, casting a shadow over the lunar surface.

During a total eclipse, the darkest part of the Earth's shadow, called the umbra, completely covers the Moon. But instead of disappearing, the Moon takes on a mesmerizing reddish-orange hue — hence the name ‘Blood Moon.’

According to NASA, this eerie glow is caused by sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere. The shorter blue and violet wavelengths scatter, while the longer red and orange ones make it through, painting the Moon in fiery shades. If the atmosphere has a lot of dust or clouds, the red tint can become even more intense.

When and where to watch

Totality — when the Moon is fully eclipsed — will last for over an hour, making it one of the best lunar eclipses in recent years. The magic begins:

Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): 2:26 AM Friday

Pacific Daylight Time (PDT): 11:26 PM Thursday

Making the most of the eclipse

🔭 Keep an eye on the weather forecast — clouds may come and go, giving you a chance to catch a glimpse.

🌌 A darker location away from city lights will offer the clearest view.

👀 No need for special equipment — this spectacle is best seen with the naked eye.

If the skies are clear, it’s a perfect excuse to step outside, relax, and enjoy this rare celestial event.