On the night of September 7 to 8, 2025, the sky will host one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year: a total lunar eclipse featuring the so-called “blood supermoon.” Lasting 82 minutes in totality, this will be the longest lunar eclipse of 2025 and the second of the year. While visible in regions like Europe, Africa, eastern Australia, and New Zealand, Brazil will not have direct visibility due to its geographic position. Astronomers and enthusiasts in Brazil can follow the event through live streams on platforms like YouTube and astronomy-focused websites. The phenomenon occurs when the Moon, Sun, and Earth align, casting a shadow that tints the Moon red. This event is expected to captivate millions worldwide, highlighting humanity’s fascination with celestial spectacles.
The perfect alignment of celestial bodies results in a unique visual spectacle, combining a supermoon—when the Moon is closest to Earth—with the reddish hue typical of a total eclipse. The extended duration of the event, according to experts, makes it particularly remarkable. The totality phase, from 2:30 PM to 3:52 PM (Brasília time), will be the highlight, with the Moon fully immersed in Earth’s shadow.
For Brazilians, the inability to observe the eclipse directly does not dampen enthusiasm. Streaming platforms and astronomy channels are gearing up to broadcast the event live, offering an accessible experience for all.
- Key platforms to watch: YouTube, observatory websites, and astronomy pages.
- Recommended time: Start observing 75 minutes before totality.
- Equipment: No telescope needed for live stream viewing.
What makes the blood supermoon special
The blood supermoon is a phenomenon that combines two astronomical events: a supermoon, when the Moon is at its perigee (closest point to Earth), and a total lunar eclipse, which gives the Moon a reddish hue. This color arises because sunlight, filtered through Earth’s atmosphere, allows red and orange tones to reach the lunar surface. The September 7, 2025, eclipse stands out for its 82-minute duration, one of the longest in recent years.
A supermoon appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than at its apogee (farthest point from Earth). This proximity enhances the visual impact, especially in regions where the eclipse is visible to the naked eye. Astronomers note that the event is a unique opportunity to observe celestial interactions.
The phenomenon also sparks cultural interest. In various traditions, the “blood moon” is linked to myths and spiritual meanings, boosting its appeal among the general public. For science, the focus is on the precision of celestial alignment and atmospheric conditions affecting the Moon’s color.
What makes the blood supermoon special
The blood supermoon is a phenomenon that combines two astronomical events: a supermoon, when the Moon is at its perigee (closest point to Earth), and a total lunar eclipse, which gives the Moon a reddish hue. This color arises because sunlight, filtered through Earth’s atmosphere, allows red and orange tones to reach the lunar surface. The September 7, 2025, eclipse stands out for its 82-minute duration, one of the longest in recent years.
A supermoon appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than at its apogee (farthest point from Earth). This proximity enhances the visual impact, especially in regions where the eclipse is visible to the naked eye. Astronomers note that the event is a unique opportunity to observe celestial interactions.
The phenomenon also sparks cultural interest. In various traditions, the “blood moon” is linked to myths and spiritual meanings, boosting its appeal among the general public. For science, the focus is on the precision of celestial alignment and atmospheric conditions affecting the Moon’s color.
How the eclipse occurs and why it’s not visible in Brazil
A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. During totality, the Moon enters the umbra, the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, acquiring a red hue. The 2025 eclipse will be visible in regions where the Moon is above the horizon, such as Europe, Africa, and parts of Oceania.
In Brazil, the geographic position prevents direct observation, as the Moon will be below the horizon in most of the country during the eclipse (12:28 PM to 5:55 PM, Brasília time). Westernmost areas, like Acre, may catch a partial view of the penumbra but not totality.
- Eclipse phases: Penumbra (12:28 PM), partial (1:27 PM), totality (2:30 PM to 3:52 PM).
- Visible regions: Europe, Africa, eastern Australia, New Zealand.
- Brazil’s alternative: Live online broadcasts.
Despite the lack of direct visibility, the event will be widely accessible through technology, with high-quality streams from international observatories.
Blood supermoon curiosities
The 2025 blood supermoon is not only an astronomical event but also a phenomenon sparking cultural and scientific fascination. The red hue, for instance, depends on factors like atmospheric dust and pollution, which can intensify or soften the color.
- Factors affecting color: Volcanic dust, pollution, and weather conditions.
- “Blood moon” name: Derived from the reddish appearance during a total eclipse.
- Frequency: Total lunar eclipses occur roughly once every 2-3 years.
- Supermoon: The Moon will be about 356,000 km from Earth at perigee.
Another intriguing aspect is visibility variation. In cities like Cairo (Egypt) and Cape Town (South Africa), the eclipse will be a nighttime spectacle, while in Perth (Australia), it will occur in the early morning. This diversity reflects the complexity of celestial movements.
How to watch the eclipse online
For Brazilians and others unable to see the eclipse directly, the internet will be a key ally. Renowned observatories, such as the European Southern Observatory (ESO) and Griffith Observatory, plan live streams with high-resolution cameras. YouTube channels and platforms like TimeandDate.com will also offer detailed coverage, including expert commentary.
Viewers should prepare in advance, checking broadcast times and ensuring a stable internet connection. Some platforms may provide recordings, allowing audiences to watch after the event concludes.
- Recommended platforms: YouTube, TimeandDate.com, observatory channels.
- Viewing tip: Use headphones for expert commentary.
- Ideal time: Start streaming at 1:15 PM (Brasília time) for the partial phase.
Next eclipses visible in Brazil
While the September 2025 eclipse won’t be visible in Brazil, the next total lunar eclipse is already scheduled. On March 3, 2026, Brazil and much of the Americas, eastern Asia, and Oceania will witness the event. This will be a chance for Brazilians to observe the phenomenon directly, without relying on online streams.
NASA predicts the 2026 eclipse will be shorter than 2025’s but still a striking spectacle. Astronomers recommend noting the date and choosing locations with low light pollution for optimal viewing.
- Next eclipse date: March 3, 2026.
- Visible regions: Americas, eastern Asia, Australia, Pacific Ocean.
- Tip: Select spots away from urban lights for better visibility.
Scientific importance of the event
Lunar eclipses are more than visual spectacles; they offer scientific opportunities. During the event, astronomers study Earth’s atmosphere, as filtered sunlight reveals its composition. The celestial alignment also allows for calibrating instruments and analyzing the Moon’s orbital motion.
The 2025 eclipse will be monitored by space missions, such as lunar probes, which may collect data on the Moon’s surface under shadow conditions. This information aids in planning future lunar explorations, including crewed missions.
The event also inspires scientific education. Schools and universities in visible regions plan observation events, while in Brazil, teachers can use streams to engage students in astronomy studies.
