Ever looked up and wondered what a total lunar eclipse looks like? This year’s eclipse is happening on May 26, 2025, and it’s a perfect chance to see the Moon turn red. You don’t need a telescope or a fancy camera – just a clear sky and a bit of planning.
The eclipse starts around 02:12 UTC and peaks at 03:45 UTC. If you’re in South Africa, that means the main phase begins just after midnight and finishes before sunrise. Most of Africa, Europe, and parts of South America will get a full view. Check a local sky chart or a phone app to confirm the exact times for your city.
Even if you’re on the edge of the visibility zone, you’ll still see the Moon dimming before it goes fully red. That dimming stage is called the penumbral phase and lasts about an hour. It’s subtle, but looking for a slight gray tint can help you spot the start.
1. Find a dark spot away from street lights. A backyard, a park, or a rooftop works well. The darker the surroundings, the more vivid the colors will appear.
2. Bring a comfortable chair or blanket. You’ll be outside for a while, and staying comfortable lets you enjoy the show without fuss.
3. Use a pair of binoculars if you have them. They won’t change the eclipse, but they can make craters and surface details clearer when the Moon is fully covered.
4. Dress for the night. Even in warm climates, temperatures can drop after midnight. A light jacket helps you stay focused on the sky.
5. Snap a photo if you like. Set your phone or camera to a low ISO, use a tripod if possible, and avoid flash. The red hue is best captured with a longer exposure.
Safety isn’t a big concern with lunar eclipses because you’re watching reflected sunlight, not looking directly at the Sun. You can watch it with the naked eye without glasses.
Finally, share the moment! Invite friends or family, or post a quick update on social media. Watching a total lunar eclipse is a shared experience that feels like a small celebration of the universe.
So mark your calendar, find a dark spot, and get ready for a night when the Moon puts on a red coat just for us. The total lunar eclipse of 2025 is a simple, free, and unforgettable sky show – don’t miss it.
Two eclipses arrive in March 2025, starting with a total lunar eclipse visible across the Americas overnight March 13–14, with totality lasting 1 hour 7 minutes and peaking at 2:58 AM EDT. A solar eclipse follows on March 29. Here’s what will be visible, why the Moon turns red, how to watch safely, and what else to expect from a four-eclipse year.
Science
