Fri Mar 14 13:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Worm Moon Eclipse and Celestial Show to Light Up the Night Sky
**Washington, D.C.** – Get ready for a spectacular celestial event! A total lunar eclipse will coincide with the March full moon, dubbed the “Worm Moon,” on Friday, March 14th. The eclipse will be visible across North America, offering a breathtaking display of a reddish-brown “Blood Moon.”
The full moon will officially peak at 2:55 a.m. EDT on Friday, but will appear full for about three days centered around this time. The lunar eclipse itself will begin with the moon entering the Earth’s penumbra (partial shadow) at 11:57 p.m. EDT on Thursday, March 13th. The noticeable dimming begins at 1:09 a.m. EDT on Friday, with the total eclipse lasting approximately 65 minutes, from 2:26 a.m. to 3:31 a.m. EDT.
The March full moon, known by various Native American names including Worm Moon, Crow Moon, and Sap Moon depending on the region, marks the thawing of the ground and the return of earthworms in some areas. This year, a retired NASA program executive has playfully suggested the name “Pothole Moon,” reflecting the increased visibility of potholes during spring thaw.
Beyond the eclipse, stargazers can anticipate excellent viewing opportunities for Jupiter and Mars in the evening sky. Venus and Mercury will be visible closer to the beginning of the lunar cycle, while Uranus will require a telescope for optimal viewing. No major meteor showers or comets are expected during this period.
NASA has provided detailed timing and positional information for various celestial bodies visible throughout this lunar cycle, including bright stars such as Capella, Vega, and Pollux, and constellations like Orion and the Pleiades. The agency encourages the use of astronomy apps or local resources for precise viewing information specific to different geographic locations. The next full moon, on April 12th, will also offer interesting planetary and stellar alignments.
First Piper 