Rare total lunar eclipse ‘blood moon’ to be visible from UK

On the evening of Sunday, 7 September 2025, skywatchers in the UK will witness a rare astronomical event: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a “blood moon”. With the Moon rising already in total eclipse over the eastern horizon, many across the country will enjoy a crimson spectacle in the twilight sky.

This long-overdue cosmic event marks the first total lunar eclipse visible from the UK since 2022. Here’s everything you need to know to experience it fully—and why it’s truly special.

What Is a Blood Moon?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its darkest shadow (the umbra) over the lunar surface. Sunlight passing through Earth’s atmosphere is filtered—blue wavelengths scatter out, while red light is refracted onto the Moon, giving it a deep red glow.

This Earth-shadow effect means no special eyewear is needed; it’s entirely safe to view with the naked eye or binoculars.

Event Timing and Phases on 7 September 2025 (UK Local Time)

• The Moon rises already in total eclipse, around 19:30–20:00 BST, depending on your location.
• Maximum eclipse happens near 19:33 BST, with totality ending around 19:52 BST.
• After totality, the Earth’s partial shadow moves across the Moon until ~20:56 BST, followed by the faint penumbral phase fading by ~21:55 BST.

Where in the UK Will It Be Best Visible?

Visibility depends strongly on your location and horizon view:

• Eastern England (e.g., Norwich): Best chance—about 25–30 minutes of totality visible.
• London/Southeast: Moonrise ~19:30 BST; around 20 minutes of totality visible.
• Manchester/Northwestern regions: Moonrise ~19:41 BST; roughly 10 minutes of totality before the Moon exits the shadow zone.
• Scotland: Moonrise ~19:48 BST; only 4–5 minutes of totality, low on the horizon.
• Northern Ireland (Belfast): Moonrise ~19:57 BST; no totality visible, only a brief partial eclipse before the Moon fully rises.

Viewing Tips and Recommendations

1. Choose an east-facing location with an unobstructed horizon—hills or elevated areas are ideal.
2. Arrive early—around 19:15 BST to get set up before totality.
3. Use binoculars or a wide-angle telephoto lens on a tripod for clearer viewing and photography.
4. Dress warmly and bring refreshments—night temperatures can drop quickly.
5. Confirm local weather conditions—South West and parts of Eastern England have the best forecast for clear skies.

Why This Eclipse Is Special

• First total eclipse visible in UK since 2022.
• Occurring during the “Corn Moon”, a folkloric harvest-time full moon—adding cultural resonance.
• A rare opportunity—after this, the next total lunar eclipse visible in the UK is not until December 2028, followed by another in June 2031.
• A chance to witness the alignment of Sun, Earth, and Moon in real time—people of all ages can experience cosmic choreography with the naked eye.

What to Expect to See

As the evening darkens:

• The Moon will emerge from the earth’s shadow with a blood-red hue, slowly fading to a dim gray as it transitions out of totality.
• The contrast against twilight skies and the Belt of Venus—the pink-tinted sky just above the horizon—adds an atmospheric backdrop to the event.
• The sight may appear initially faint or odd-shaped—be patient: clarity improves as the Moon rises higher.

Summary Table of Key Observing Details

Final Thoughts

The blood moon of 7 September 2025 is a rare celestial event—accessible, awe-inspiring, and safe to observe. Even if you catch only a sliver of totality, its significance is magnified by the shared experience of witnessing cosmic alignment in real time. Whether you’re an amateur stargazer or just curious, this is one sight worth staying informed—and ready—for.