News
September 01, 2025
When and how to see full blood moon lunar eclipse and planets shining bright next week
September will be a month full of exciting astronomical events
Get ready to look up! September promises a celestial spectacle next week, featuring a stunning full blood moon lunar eclipse alongside the brilliant glow of several planets. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or just curious about the night sky, this is an event you won't want to miss.
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the total lunar eclipse, where the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow upon the lunar surface. This eclipse, often referred to as a "blood moon" because of the reddish hue the moon takes on during totality, is a breathtaking sight. The red color is caused by sunlight being scattered and refracted by the Earth's atmosphere, with red wavelengths reaching the moon while other colors are filtered out.
While specific timing depends on your location, the eclipse is expected to be visible across a wide swathe of the globe. Check local astronomy websites or apps for precise timings tailored to your area. Typically, a total lunar eclipse unfolds over several hours, starting with a partial eclipse as the Earth's shadow begins to creep across the moon's surface, followed by totality when the moon is fully immersed in the Earth's umbra (the darkest part of the shadow). Finally, the process reverses as the moon gradually emerges from the shadow.
But the lunar eclipse isn't the only treat in store. Several planets will also be shining brightly in the night sky next week. Keep an eye out for Venus, often visible near the horizon as the "morning star" or "evening star," depending on its position relative to the sun. Mars, with its distinctive reddish glow, may also be visible. Consulting a planetarium app or website can help you identify which planets are visible from your location and their approximate positions in the sky.
To best enjoy these astronomical events, find a location away from city lights to minimize light pollution. Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes to improve your vision. While binoculars can enhance the view of the planets and the moon's surface during the partial phases of the eclipse, a telescope is not necessary to enjoy the show. The naked-eye view of a blood moon is a truly unforgettable experience. So, mark your calendars, check your local weather forecast, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the universe next week!
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the total lunar eclipse, where the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow upon the lunar surface. This eclipse, often referred to as a "blood moon" because of the reddish hue the moon takes on during totality, is a breathtaking sight. The red color is caused by sunlight being scattered and refracted by the Earth's atmosphere, with red wavelengths reaching the moon while other colors are filtered out.
While specific timing depends on your location, the eclipse is expected to be visible across a wide swathe of the globe. Check local astronomy websites or apps for precise timings tailored to your area. Typically, a total lunar eclipse unfolds over several hours, starting with a partial eclipse as the Earth's shadow begins to creep across the moon's surface, followed by totality when the moon is fully immersed in the Earth's umbra (the darkest part of the shadow). Finally, the process reverses as the moon gradually emerges from the shadow.
But the lunar eclipse isn't the only treat in store. Several planets will also be shining brightly in the night sky next week. Keep an eye out for Venus, often visible near the horizon as the "morning star" or "evening star," depending on its position relative to the sun. Mars, with its distinctive reddish glow, may also be visible. Consulting a planetarium app or website can help you identify which planets are visible from your location and their approximate positions in the sky.
To best enjoy these astronomical events, find a location away from city lights to minimize light pollution. Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes to improve your vision. While binoculars can enhance the view of the planets and the moon's surface during the partial phases of the eclipse, a telescope is not necessary to enjoy the show. The naked-eye view of a blood moon is a truly unforgettable experience. So, mark your calendars, check your local weather forecast, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the universe next week!
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World