Blood moon 2025: How to see tonight’s lunar eclipse

The Blood Moon: A Rare and Awe-Inspiring Spectacle

When and Where to Witness the Blood Moon

For stargazers in the UK, a rare opportunity to witness a blood moon is approaching. This lunar event, known as a blood moon, occurs during a full lunar eclipse when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a reddish hue on the lunar surface. The event is set to take place in the early hours of tomorrow morning, with the eclipse becoming visible from 3:57 AM. The peak of the eclipse, known as the maximum, will occur at 6:19 AM in London, according to the Royal Observatory Greenwich. However, viewers in the UK will only be able to see a partial lunar eclipse, as the moon will have already dipped below the horizon by the time the full eclipse occurs at 6:58 AM, which will be visible only from North and South America.

Understanding the Blood Moon Phenomenon

The blood moon phenomenon is a result of a lunar eclipse, which happens when the Earth aligns perfectly between the sun and the moon, blocking the direct sunlight that usually reflects off the lunar surface. During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth’s atmosphere scatters the sun’s rays, allowing only the longer wavelengths of light, such as red and orange, to reach the moon, giving it a reddish appearance. This is similar to the effect that causes sunsets and sunrises to appear red. In the UK, however, only a partial eclipse will be visible, meaning that only a portion of the moon will take on this reddish color.

Optimal Viewing Tips for the Blood Moon

To make the most of this celestial event, viewers in the UK are advised to find a location with a clear view of the western horizon. The best viewing times will be from 5:09 AM onwards, when the moon begins to take on its reddish hue as it moves into the Earth’s umbra, the darker part of the shadow. Regions in the west, such as Wales, Northern Ireland, Cornwall, and western Scotland, are expected to have the best viewing conditions, as the moon will remain above the horizon for a longer period. Remember, no special equipment is needed—binoculars or the naked eye will suffice, provided the weather cooperates.

The Science Behind Lunar Eclipses

Lunar eclipses are relatively rare because the moon’s orbit is tilted relative to Earth’s orbit around the sun, meaning the moon doesn’t always pass through Earth’s shadow. This tilt causes the moon to sometimes pass above or below the shadow, resulting in no eclipse. On average, there are between two and five lunar eclipses each year, but they are not visible from every location on Earth. The UK will have another opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse on September 7, though viewing conditions may be challenging due to the moon’s low position on the horizon.

Personal Reflections on Witnessing a Blood Moon

For many, witnessing a blood moon is a magical experience that often sparks curiosity and wonder. Imo Bell, an astronomy education assistant at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, recalls their first blood moon experience in 2008, describing it as "magical." Bell’s father used simple analogies, like using mugs to explain the alignment of the sun, Earth, and moon, to help them understand the phenomenon. Such experiences highlight the importance of sharing astronomical events with others, especially children, to inspire a love for science and the night sky.

Conclusion: Making the Most of This Rare Event

While the blood moon is a relatively rare event, it is also a reminder of the wonders of our universe and the opportunities we have to observe them. For those in the UK, tomorrow’s partial lunar eclipse offers a chance to glimpse this natural spectacle. By rising early and finding a good vantage point, viewers can enjoy this awe-inspiring display. Even though the full eclipse will not be visible from the UK, the partial eclipse still promises to be a breathtaking sight. As we look forward to the next total lunar eclipse visible from the UK in September, this event serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and the celestial phenomena that continue to captivate us all.