What to Know and How to Watch
I’m now more aware of upcoming celestial events, thanks to more frequent use of my stargazing app (see my previous post on Star Walk 2). One of the most exciting is the upcoming total lunar eclipse on the night of March 13-14, 2025. Since the best viewing time is late at night, I am publishing this blog in advance so you can plan your viewing.
What Is a Lunar Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon’s surface. This only happens during a full moon when the three celestial bodies align in space. Unlike solar eclipses, which require special eye protection and are visible only from specific regions, you can observe lunar eclipses from anywhere on the night side of the Earth with clear skies.
There are three main types of lunar eclipses:
- Total Lunar Eclipse—The entire Moon passes through Earth’s darkest shadow (the umbra), turning a reddish hue because of sunlight scattering through Earth’s atmosphere (a phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering, which also makes sunsets red).
- Partial Lunar Eclipse—Only a portion of the Moon enters the umbra, leaving part of it in direct sunlight.
- Penumbral Lunar Eclipse—The Moon passes through the outer shadow of the Earth (the penumbra), causing a subtle dimming that can be difficult to notice.
What Happens During a Total Lunar Eclipse?
During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon undergoes several phases:
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins—The Moon enters the Earth’s outer shadow with little visible change.
- Partial Eclipse Begins—A dark shadow creeps across the Moon as it moves into the Earth’s umbra.
- Total Eclipse Begins—The entire Moon is in the umbra and appears red, often called a “Blood Moon.”
- Maximum Eclipse—The deepest and most dramatic phase of the eclipse.
- Total Eclipse Ends—The Moon begins exiting the umbra, with its bright surface returning.
- Partial Eclipse Ends—The shadow gradually moves off the Moon.
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends—The final stage, where any remaining shadow disappears.
Why Is This Eclipse Special?
- First total lunar eclipse in over three years—The last total eclipse occurred in November 2022.
- Coincides with the Full Worm Moon—March’s full moon, traditionally called the Worm Moon, will make this event even more visually striking.
- Easily visible from the Americas and parts of Europe—Unlike some eclipses that occur during inconvenient times, this one will be well-placed for evening viewing in the U.S.
- The Moon’s full eclipse will last approximately 65 minutes—This will provide plenty of observation time.
- Relatively rare occurrence—Total lunar eclipses only happen every two or three years, and not all are easily viewable from North America.
When and Where to See It
For viewers in San Francisco and much of the U.S., the best times to watch are:
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 8:57 PM PST (March 13)
- Total Eclipse Begins: 11:26 PM PST
- Maximum Eclipse: 11:58 PM PST
- Total Eclipse Ends: 12:31 AM PST (March 14)
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 2:00 AM PST
Viewing Tips
- No special equipment needed—Lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience.
- Find a dark spot—For the best visibility, choose a location away from city lights.
- Check the weather—Ensure clear skies for an unobstructed view.
- Use astronomy apps—Apps like Sky Tonight or Stellarium Mobile (both available in the Apple App Store) can help you track the Moon’s position and eclipse phases in real time.
- Photography—A DSLR camera with manual settings or a smartphone with night mode can capture great shots. Consider bringing a tripod for stability during longer exposures.
Final Thoughts
Lunar eclipses are among the most accessible and awe-inspiring astronomical events. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just curious about the night sky, this is a great opportunity to witness a celestial spectacle. I’d love to hear about your eclipse-viewing plans or experiences with past lunar eclipses. Mark your calendar for March 13-14, 2025, and get ready to enjoy the show!
My new book, Design Thinking: A Guide to Innovation, is now available online.
Contact me at FredEstesSTEMed@gmail.com.
The next post will be Friday, March 28th.