• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

A rare total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon or Chandra Grahan in India, is set to occur in March 2025. This celestial event coincides with the festival of Holi, adding to the excitement for skywatchers. However, while the Blood Moon will be visible in many parts of the world, people in India will miss the spectacle as it takes place during daylight hours.

The total lunar eclipse will take place between late Thursday night, March 13, and early Friday morning, March 14, 2025. Here are the key timings in Indian Standard Time (IST):

  • Full eclipse begins: March 14, 11:56 AM IST

  • Maximum eclipse: March 14, 12:28 PM IST

  • Full eclipse ends: March 14, 1:01 PM IST

  • Total eclipse concludes: March 14, 3:30 PM IST

Since the eclipse occurs during daytime in India, it will not be visible to the naked eye. However, astronomy enthusiasts can watch the event through live streams hosted by space agencies and observatories.

Where Will Blood Moon Be Visible?

The total lunar eclipse will be visible in several parts of the world, primarily in the Western Hemisphere. Some of the major cities where people will be able to witness at least a part of the eclipse include:

  • North America: New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Ottawa, Washington DC, Chicago, Detroit, Havana, Mexico City, New Orleans

  • South America: São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Santiago, Asuncion, Brasilia

  • Europe & Africa: Lisbon, Dublin, Casablanca

  • Pacific & Oceania: Honolulu, Auckland, Suva

Observers in these regions will need clear skies to view the Blood Moon in its full glory.

What Causes Blood Moon?

A total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking direct sunlight from reaching the lunar surface. Instead of turning completely dark, the Moon takes on a reddish hue due to the scattering of sunlight through the Earth's atmosphere—a phenomenon known as Rayleigh scattering. The same effect is responsible for the red and orange colors of sunrise and sunset.

How To Watch Eclipse?

For those outside the visibility zones or affected by cloudy weather, several online platforms will offer live coverage of the event. Space agencies like NASA, along with observatories and astronomy channels, will provide real-time streams of the Blood Moon, allowing enthusiasts worldwide to experience this stunning event virtually.

The Total Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse of 2025 is a spectacular astronomical event that will be observed across various continents. Unfortunately, it won’t be visible in India, but skywatchers can still enjoy the experience via live streams. Mark your calendars and prepare to witness one of nature’s most mesmerising celestial displays!