Blood Moon lights up the sky: total lunar eclipse captivates the world on September 7

On the night of September 7, 2025, billions of people worldwide turn their eyes to the sky to witness a rare astronomical spectacle: the total lunar eclipse, known as the Blood Moon. The phenomenon, which occurs when the Moon passes completely through Earth’s shadow, takes on a striking reddish hue, visible in continents such as Asia, Africa, Australia, and parts of Europe. Lasting 82 minutes in its total phase, this is the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022. In Brazil, unfortunately, the event will not be visible to the naked eye due to daytime hours, but live broadcasts will allow Brazilians to follow along. The phenomenon, blending science and beauty, sparks fascination among astronomers and enthusiasts, uniting the planet in a moment of celestial contemplation.

The astronomical event began drawing attention weeks earlier, with preparations in observatories and public spaces in cities like Shanghai, China, and Kuwait in the Middle East. The Blood Moon, coinciding with the Harvest Moon, promises to be a visual and cultural milestone, carrying astrological significance for some and serving as a scientific spectacle for others. The eclipse’s visibility varies by geographic location, with some regions able to observe all phases, while others will see only partial segments.

• What is the Blood Moon? The term describes the red hue the Moon takes on during a total eclipse.
• Why does it happen? Earth’s shadow blocks direct sunlight, but the atmosphere filters reddish tones.
• Where will it be visible? Asia, Australia, Africa, and parts of Europe will have the best viewing conditions.
• Event duration: The total phase lasts 82 minutes, with a total duration of 3 hours and 29 minutes.

How a total lunar eclipse occurs

A total lunar eclipse happens when Earth aligns precisely between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow over the natural satellite. This alignment, possible only during a full Moon, causes sunlight to pass through Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out shorter-wavelength colors like blue, allowing red tones to reach the lunar surface. The result is the striking reddish color that gives the event its Blood Moon name. On September 7, 2025, the Moon will be near its perigee, the closest point to Earth, making it appear slightly larger in the sky, enhancing the visual impact of the phenomenon.

The 82-minute duration of the total phase makes this eclipse the longest since 2022, according to astronomical data. Earth’s shadow is divided into two parts: the penumbra, causing a slight dimming, and the umbra, responsible for the reddish hue. During the event, about 36% of the Moon’s diameter will be in the darkest part of the umbra, potentially resulting in a deeper red compared to previous eclipses.

Regions with the best visibility

The visibility of the September 7 total lunar eclipse varies significantly by geographic location. In Asia, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan, the phenomenon will be fully visible, with all phases observable from the start of the penumbra to the return of the Moon’s brightness. Western Australia will also have prime conditions, with the night sky providing an ideal backdrop for observation. In eastern Africa, including countries like Kenya and Tanzania, viewers will enjoy a complete view, while Europe and eastern Australia may only see parts of the event, such as the total phase or the partial eclipse.

• Asia: Full visibility, with highlights in Shanghai and Tokyo.
• Western Australia: Ideal conditions for complete observation.
• Eastern Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda with prime viewing.
• Europe: Partial visibility, with better conditions in the eastern continent.
• Americas: Event not visible to the naked eye due to daytime hours.

In Brazil, the eclipse occurs during the day, between 1:27 PM and 4:56 PM (Brasília time), making direct observation impossible. However, Brazilians can follow the event through live broadcasts, such as the one offered by the National Observatory on YouTube, scheduled to start at 12 PM on September 7.

Preparations for the Blood Moon

Anticipation for the total lunar eclipse has mobilized astronomers, scientists, and enthusiasts worldwide. In cities like Shanghai, along the Bund promenade, and in Kuwait, crowds gathered at strategic spots to observe the phenomenon. Observatories and scientific institutions, such as the National Observatory, set up telescopes and live broadcasts to capture detailed images of the reddish Moon.

Preparations included:

• Telescope setup: High-precision equipment was positioned in key locations.
• Public events: Observation sessions were organized in squares and parks.
• Online broadcasts: Platforms like YouTube offered live coverage for regions without visibility.
• Educational workshops: Institutions held talks about the astronomical phenomenon.

The mobilization reflects global interest in the event, which blends science, culture, and spirituality for many viewers. In some regions, like India, the eclipse is also seen as a moment of spiritual renewal, according to astrological traditions.

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Fascinating facts about the Blood Moon

The Blood Moon phenomenon has always sparked fascination, both for its science and cultural significance. The September 7, 2025, eclipse has unique features that make it special.

• Near-supermoon: The event occurs 2.7 days before perigee, making the Moon appear larger.
• Record duration: At 82 minutes of totality, it’s the longest eclipse since 2022.
• Cultural meanings: In some cultures, the Blood Moon symbolizes change or renewal.
• Global visibility: About 60% of the world’s population can see the eclipse in full.
• No equipment needed: The phenomenon can be observed with the naked eye, though binoculars enhance the experience.

The event also coincides with the Harvest Moon, a name given by Native American peoples to the September full Moon, associated with the harvest season. This combination adds a cultural layer to the astronomical spectacle.

How to follow the eclipse in Brazil

Although Brazil is not in the direct visibility zone, Brazilians have options to experience the event. Live broadcasts, such as those from the National Observatory and the Virtual Telescope Project, will be available on platforms like YouTube, allowing the public to follow all phases of the eclipse in real time. Additionally, apps like Stellarium and websites like Timeanddate.com offer tools to simulate the event and check exact times in different time zones.

For those preparing to watch:

• Access live broadcasts: YouTube channels, like the National Observatory’s, start at 12 PM (Brasília time).
• Use astronomy apps: Stellarium and SkySafari help simulate the eclipse.
• Join local events: Some universities and planetariums offer educational sessions.
• Check the sky: Though the eclipse isn’t visible, the full Moon can be observed at night.

Online broadcasts will be essential for Brazilians, as the event occurs during the day, preventing direct observation.

Cultural and scientific significance

The total lunar eclipse is not just an astronomical phenomenon but also an event that connects people worldwide. In Shanghai, crowds gathered along the Bund, by the Huangpu River, to capture the event in photos and videos. In Kuwait, observers recorded stunning images of the reddish Moon against the urban skyline. These moments, shared on social media, amplify the event’s reach, turning it into a global collective experience.

Scientifically, the eclipse offers opportunities to study Earth’s atmosphere and the lunar surface. The refraction of sunlight during the event allows scientists to analyze the composition of Earth’s atmosphere, while astronomers observe subtle changes on the Moon’s surface. For the public, the phenomenon is a chance to connect with the universe and reflect on the grandeur of the cosmos.