Stunning Photos Capture Blood Red Moon during March Total Lunar Eclipse near the Milky Way's Core

Earlier this month, skywatchers were treated to a spectacular display as a total lunar eclipse lit up the night sky, showcasing a breathtaking blood red moon alongside the shimmering heart of the Milky Way. The awe-inspiring event unfolded overnight on March 13-14, coinciding with the Full Worm Moon, and reached its peak at 2:59 a.m. EDT (6:59 GMT) on March 14.

Known as the "Blood Worm Moon," this total lunar eclipse was particularly eye-catching over the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) perched atop Mt. Cerro Tololo in northern Chile. The National Science Foundation's National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) shared stunning images captured by ground-based telescopes against the backdrop of the glowing blood red moon and a stunning vista of the Milky Way.

But what exactly causes the moon to take on this captivating red hue? During a total lunar eclipse, Earth positions itself perfectly between the sun and the moon. This alignment causes Earth's shadow to envelop the moon, darkening it, and at times allowing it to take on that reddish shade. This phenomenon occurs due to Rayleigh scattering, a process similar to why sunsets appear red. It’s why total lunar eclipses are often referred to as "blood moons."

This recent lunar eclipse was the first total lunar eclipse seen since 2022, granting a spectacular view across North America and much of South America. Stargazers in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile enjoyed the full spectacle as the moon journeyed through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, known as the umbra. Meanwhile, viewers in Western Europe and parts of West Africa caught glimpses of totality as the moon was setting, while New Zealand had a partial view as the moon emerged just as the eclipse took place.

Astronomers and space enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate such celestial events, as they remind us of the dynamic and beautiful nature of the universe. Mark your calendars for the next total lunar eclipse, as it’s a rare chance to witness one of nature's most enchanting displays!