Skywatchers across India are gearing up for a spectacular celestial show tonight—a rare and extended total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a "Blood Moon." The event will be visible across major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, and extends beyond to regions such as Asia, Australia, eastern Africa, and parts of Europe.
The eclipse kicks off with the penumbral phase at 8:58 PM IST on September 7, followed by the partial phase beginning at 9:57 PM. The total eclipse—the iconic Blood Moon—commences around 11:00 PM, reaching its maximum around 11:41 PM, and concludes between 12:22 and 12:23 AM. The entire phenomenon wraps up by about 1:26 AM, though some reports extend the end to 2:25 AM, particularly when including subtle penumbral effects. The core totality phase lasts approximately 82 minutes, making this one of the longest-lasting total lunar eclipses in India this year. All phases combined, it spans well over five hours.
This event promises a mesmerizing visual—Earth’s shadow will gradually cover the Moon, transforming it into a glowing copper-red orb as sunlight filters and refracts through Earth’s atmosphere. This radiant hue is what gives the Blood Moon its name.
What makes this particular eclipse noteworthy is not just its duration but also its rarity and wide visibility. It marks the second and final lunar eclipse of 2025 and is dubbed the most prolonged total lunar eclipse visible from India in several years. Additionally, it aligns with traditional and cultural observances—within Hindu culture, lunar eclipses (Chandra Grahan) are considered spiritually significant, especially when they occur during sacred periods like Pitru Paksha.
No special equipment is needed for viewing; the eclipse is safe to observe with the naked eye—though using binoculars or a telescope may enhance details. Clear skies will offer the best experience, but even cloudy conditions won’t entirely dim the spectacle.
Whether you’re an avid astronomy enthusiast or a casual observer, tonight’s celestial display is a rare treat—one that promises to cast a captivating red glow across skies nationwide.
