Mark Your Calendars!

Stargazers, mark your calendars! A stunning total lunar eclipse, famously dubbed the 'blood moon', is set to illuminate our skies on September 7-8, 2023.

What is a Blood Moon?

This celestial phenomenon occurs when Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow and turning the moon a breathtaking rusty red during totality. Each year, orbital mechanics orchestrate this rare alignment about three times, giving us the opportunity to witness this awe-inspiring event.

Get Ready for Prime Viewing!

The week leading up to the eclipse presents the perfect opportunity to scout for an ideal viewing spot. Whether you're a keen photographer looking to capture the moon against iconic landscapes or a casual observer, ensure your location offers a clear view free from obstructions.

The Science Behind the Red Glow

As the moon slips into the umbra, Earth's deepest shadow, it will be bathed in longer wavelengths of sunlight, resulting in that captivating crimson hue. This effect, known as Rayleigh scattering, allows the red light to shine through while blocking out the blue.

Don't Worry About the Clouds!

If clouds threaten to obscure your view, or if the moon is below the horizon, fear not! Space.com will be streaming the entire event live online, allowing you to follow along and catch every moment from anywhere.

Timing is Everything!

The total lunar eclipse kicks off at 11:28 a.m. ET (1528 GMT) on September 7, with totality reaching its peak at 1:30 p.m. ET (1730 GMT) for an impressive 82 minutes!

Who Can See It?

Approximately 5.8 billion people, or around 76% of the global population, living in regions across Australia, Asia, Africa, and eastern Europe, will be able to witness the blood moon in its full glory. However, viewers in the Americas will miss out this time; the moon will remain below the horizon throughout the eclipse.

Safe Viewing Tips!

One of the best aspects of a lunar eclipse? You can safely observe it without any special equipment! Whether you're using binoculars, a telescope, or just your eyes, enjoy every moment of this cosmic spectacle without fear for your eyesight.

Capture the Moment!

Want to immortalize the beauty of the blood moon? Check out our guide to photographing lunar eclipses with a DSLR and discover the best cameras and lenses for astrophotography!