A spectacular celestial event is set to grace the skies this Friday, as a Blood Moon will be visible following a lunar eclipse. This rare phenomenon, where the moon appears red as it enters the Earth’s shadow, will be the first Blood Moon visible in the UK since 2022. The eclipse will begin at 3.57am, with the moon starting to change colour around 5.09am. The peak of the eclipse, when the moon will be deeply red, is expected at 6.58am, just before it sets below the horizon.
Experts are advising skywatchers not to miss this opportunity, as witnessing a Blood Moon in real life is described as “really, really cool” by Imo Bell, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. During a lunar eclipse, the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon, which results in the striking red hue. This phenomenon occurs during a full moon when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, creating a stunning visual display.
To make the most of viewing the lunar eclipse, experts recommend finding a dark location with minimal light pollution for enhanced visibility. While the eclipse can be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars or a telescope can provide a clearer and more detailed view of the celestial event. It is also advised to dress appropriately for the outdoor viewing conditions, especially considering the early morning timing of the eclipse.
One of the fascinating aspects of a total lunar eclipse is the gradual colour change of the Moon, as it transitions from its usual appearance to a reddish or orange hue. This change in colour is caused by Rayleigh scattering in Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out shorter blue wavelengths and allows longer red wavelengths to reach the Moon, resulting in its distinctive colour during the eclipse.
For those who may miss the upcoming Blood Moon on Friday, the next lunar eclipse visible in the UK is forecasted to occur on 7 September 2025. The event is expected to last several hours, providing ample time for observers to enjoy the mesmerising transformation of the Moon as it traverses through Earth’s shadow. Stay tuned for more updates and information on celestial events and astronomical wonders as we continue to explore the mysteries of the cosmos.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming Blood Moon eclipse, astronomers and stargazers alike are eagerly anticipating the rare celestial spectacle that will unfold in the early hours of Friday morning. With the moon set to turn a striking shade of red as it enters Earth’s shadow, this event promises a visual feast for those willing to rise early and witness the magic of the universe in action.
So mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare to witness the breathtaking beauty of a Blood Moon eclipse, as nature puts on a show that is truly out of this world. Whether you are a seasoned skywatcher or simply curious to glimpse this rare phenomenon, the upcoming eclipse is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of beholding its splendour.