Sun Mar 09 08:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Blood Moon Rising: Total Lunar Eclipse to Grace US Skies This Week
**Washington, D.C.** – Stargazers across North America are in for a treat. A total lunar eclipse, colloquially known as a “blood moon” due to its reddish hue, will be visible on the night of March 13-14. This will be the first total lunar eclipse visible from the U.S. since November 2022, and the next won’t occur until March 2026, according to NASA.
The celestial event begins at 11:57 p.m. ET on March 13th with the penumbral phase, as the moon enters the Earth’s outer shadow. The entire eclipse will last just over six hours, concluding at 6 a.m. ET on March 14th. Besides North America, the eclipse will also be visible in parts of South America, Europe, and Africa.
Unlike solar eclipses, viewing a lunar eclipse requires no special equipment. The reddish color is caused by sunlight bending through Earth’s atmosphere and scattering blue light, leaving the red wavelengths to reach the moon’s surface.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow on the moon. This differs from a solar eclipse, where the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking sunlight. Solar eclipses are shorter in duration and require specialized eyewear for safe viewing, unlike the upcoming lunar eclipse.
This rare celestial phenomenon offers a captivating spectacle for skywatchers and serves as a reminder of the intricate celestial dance between the sun, Earth, and moon. Experts encourage everyone to look up and enjoy the show.
First Piper 