Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse to Dazzle UK Skies Next Week

A total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a Blood Moon, will grace the skies over the UK on September 7, 2025. Astronomers are encouraging residents to look up at the skies to witness this astronomical event, during which the Moon will take on a striking crimson hue. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow and allowing only refracted light to illuminate the lunar surface.

Understanding the Blood Moon

The term “Blood Moon” describes a total lunar eclipse, a rare event that captures the public’s imagination. Various types of lunar eclipses exist, each varying in spectacle. A penumbral lunar eclipse, for instance, is the least dramatic, as the Moon passes through the outer part of the Earth’s shadow, resulting in only a subtle shading. In contrast, a partial lunar eclipse sees part of the Moon passing through the Earth’s darker umbra, creating a more noticeable effect.

The most spectacular of these is the total lunar eclipse. During this event, the Earth completely blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. Instead, the Moon is illuminated by light that has passed through the Earth’s atmosphere. This refracted light gives the Moon its characteristic deep red color, creating a breathtaking celestial display.

Viewing the Eclipse: Key Details

According to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the total lunar eclipse will be visible throughout the UK, although viewing conditions may be challenging. The Moon will be low on the horizon, and cloud cover could obstruct the view. The best time to observe the eclipse is on the evening of September 7, 2025, with the maximum eclipse occurring at 19:33 BST. Importantly, the Moon’s actual maximum will take place earlier at 19:11 BST when it is still below the horizon.

To enhance viewing opportunities, the observatory advises finding a high vantage point with an unobstructed view to the East. As the Moon gradually exits Earth’s umbra and penumbra, this will happen until approximately 21:55 BST.

The previous total lunar eclipse visible in the UK occurred on May 16, 2022, with another happening in July 2018. Following the upcoming eclipse, the next total lunar eclipse visible from the UK will not occur until December 21, 2028, making this event a noteworthy occasion for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

As anticipation builds for this celestial event, the Blood Moon promises to provide a striking reminder of the beauty and wonder of our universe.