A rare celestial event is on the horizon for astronomy enthusiasts as the second total lunar eclipse of the year is scheduled to occur this weekend. This captivating phenomenon is expected to be visible in various regions of the world, including the UK, and does not require any specialized equipment for viewing.
Unlike solar eclipses, a lunar eclipse transpires when a full Moon passes through Earth’s shadow known as the ‘umbra’. Dr. Shyam Balaji, an expert in astrophysics from King’s College London, mentioned that the deepest phase of the eclipse will be observable from the UK at 7:45 pm BST, shortly after the moonrise on Sunday, September 7, 2025.
This total lunar eclipse will be visible across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, while parts of the Americas may witness only partial stages of the eclipse. Additionally, the event will lead to a ‘Blood Moon’, characterized by the Moon’s striking coppery red hue during the eclipse, visible in Africa and Europe.
Dr. Balaji explained that during a total lunar eclipse, the Moon aligns directly between the Sun and Earth, entering Earth’s shadow. This positioning filters out blue light, giving the Moon a reddish or coppery appearance.
While total lunar eclipses occur every few years, this year stands out with two occurrences in March and September. The previous lunar eclipse in March displayed a brighter red hue due to the Moon not passing through the deepest part of Earth’s shadow.
Enthusiasts keen on observing the Blood Moon in September can utilize mobile apps like Sky Tonight for precise details on lunar events. No special equipment is necessary, but binoculars can enhance the viewing experience.
For optimal viewing, Dr. Balaji recommended selecting a location with a clear eastern horizon and allowing time for eyes to adjust. Using binoculars or a small telescope can improve the view, while a tripod is beneficial for capturing clear photos. In case of unfavorable weather, live streams of the eclipse will be available online.
To enhance the stargazing experience, avoiding light pollution and checking the weather forecast beforehand are advisable. Planning ahead and minimizing light pollution can significantly improve the visibility of celestial events.
Looking ahead, the next partial lunar eclipse is anticipated on August 28, 2026, following the upcoming lunar phenomena.