Get ready, Waterloo Region! This Friday morning, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness the only total lunar eclipse of the year—a mesmerizing celestial event that you simply cannot miss! The eclipse kicks off around midnight, but the real magic happens at 2:30 a.m. when the stunning Full Worm Blood Moon blankets the night sky, lasting for about an hour.

Science communicator Orbax, from the University of Guelph's Department of Physics, revealed that "there hasn’t been one visible for us here in this region since November 2022." While lunar eclipses typically occur a couple of times a year, not every event is visible in our area. So, this is truly a rare occasion!

What makes this event even more exciting is that it falls during March break, providing a perfect chance for families to bond under the stars. Orbax encourages parents to seize this opportunity to spark their children’s interest in science and the universe. “Something like this can be a captivating, really cool and mind-blowing experience, especially if you have young people at home,” he noted.

However, your view of this spectacular event is dependent on the weather. If clouds decide to cover the skies, the beauty of the eclipse might be obscured. So, fingers crossed for clear skies!

This year has been an astronomer’s delight, with several exciting celestial events! Just last year, we experienced a solar eclipse in April, enjoyed the stunning Aurora Borealis, and marveled at the planetary parade in January. All of these moments provide perfect opportunities to engage the younger generation with science and the wonders of our universe.

The good news? Viewing the total lunar eclipse is safe and requires no eye protection—unlike a solar eclipse. For those looking to get the best view, a telescope will enhance the experience, making the Blood Moon even more spectacular.

Don't forget to mark your calendars! The full moon is expected to revert back to its regular state by 6 a.m. on Friday. Don't miss out on this captivating experience; it may be another three years until a total lunar eclipse is visible in our region again!

For more astronomical insights, check out Orbax’s March 2025 Star Gazing Guide on his YouTube channel—it's a treasure trove of information for families eager to learn about the cosmos!