will You Be Able to See September’s “Blood Moon”?
A total lunar eclipse will grace the skies on Sunday, offering astronomy enthusiasts a chance to witness the moon turn a dramatic shade of red – often called a “blood moon.” While best viewed in Asia, parts of Europe adn africa will also have an opportunity to observe the event.
The eclipse occurs when the sun, Earth, and moon align perfectly, with Earth positioned directly between the sun and the full moon. This alignment causes the moon to pass into Earth’s shadow, blocking direct sunlight. However, some sunlight still reaches the moon, refracted and dispersed through Earth’s atmosphere. According to Ryan milligan, an astrophysicist at the University of Belfast, this process is what gives the moon its reddish hue. “The blue wavelengths of light are shorter and more easily dispersed, leaving the red wavelengths to dominate, creating this blood color,” he explains.
Visibility will vary geographically. Spectators in China, India, East Africa, and Western Australia are expected to have the clearest views. In Europe, the eclipse will be visible briefly as the moon rises, particularly in the east. In mainland France,the eclipse will reach its maximum visibility around 8:11 p.m. Specifically, those east of an approximate line running from Carcassonne to Maubeuge will have the best chance of seeing the event.
Though, clear skies are crucial. Even within areas predicted to have visibility, only a narrow band is currently forecast to have the necessary clear conditions.
Unlike solar eclipses, which require special eye protection, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye. All you need is a clear sky and a good vantage point.
This eclipse marks the second total lunar eclipse of the year, following one observed in March. It also serves as a preview for a important astronomical event: a total solar eclipse expected on August 12, 2026, which will be fully visible in Spain and Iceland and partially visible across other European countries – the first total solar eclipse in Europe since 2006.
