'Blood Moon' to Dazzle Skywatchers in India and Around the World Today: Timing and Viewing Guide for the Total Lunar Eclipse

A celestial treat tonight for skywatchers across India and many parts of the world, as a spectacular total lunar eclipse—popularly known as a “Blood Moon”—lights up the sky.

This rare phenomenon occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, casting Earth’s shadow on the Moon. As the Moon passes through the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, it takes on a deep red hue, earning it the name “Blood Moon.” The sight has fascinated—and at times frightened—humankind for centuries.

According to news agency AFP, the best views of the eclipse will be in Asia, particularly India and China. The full eclipse will also be visible in parts of western Australia and on the eastern edge of Africa. Europe and most of Africa will catch only a partial glimpse as the Moon rises, while people across North and South America will miss the show entirely.

The total lunar eclipse begins at 11:00 PM IST on Sunday, September 7, and will last until 12:22 AM IST on Monday, September 8. The penumbral phase—when the Moon starts moving into Earth’s outer shadow—will start around 10:01 PM IST.

This is the second total lunar eclipse of 2025, following the last one in March, and it's the longest since 2022. For astronomy enthusiasts—both amateur and professional—it’s a thrilling event, especially as a warm-up to a major celestial happening next year.

On August 12, 2026, a rare total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of Europe, including Spain and Iceland. It will be the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 2006. A roughly 160-kilometre-wide path of totality will cut between Madrid and Barcelona, though neither city will experience complete darkness.

So, what gives the Moon its eerie red glow during a lunar eclipse?

Astrophysicist Ryan Milligan of Queen’s University Belfast explains that the color comes from Earth’s atmosphere. “The Moon appears red during lunar eclipses because the only sunlight reaching it is reflected and scattered through Earth’s atmosphere,” he says. “Blue light scatters more easily, while red light passes through—giving the Moon its iconic bloody glow.”

Whether you're a casual stargazer or a seasoned skywatcher, tonight's Blood Moon promises to be a sight worth staying up for—weather permitting.