September’s Blood Moon Eclipse: A Rare Celestial Spectacle Coming to Australian Skies

A Remarkable Lunar Event

An extraordinary celestial event awaits this September, as approximately 85% of the world’s population will have the opportunity to witness a ‘blood red’ total lunar eclipse on September 7-8, 2025.

Timing and Visibility

The moon will begin its journey through Earth’s darkest shadow (umbra) at 17:30 UTC on September 7. The total eclipse phase will last from 17:30 UTC to 18:53 UTC, with the moment of greatest eclipse occurring at 18:11 UTC.

This spectacular event will be visible across multiple continents, including Antarctica, Australia, Asia, the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, Europe, the eastern Atlantic Ocean and Africa.

Astronomical Significance

The duration of totality will last an impressive 83 minutes, during which the Moon will take on a deep red hue between 17:30 and 18:52 GMT. Notably, this spectacular event can be observed with the naked eye, requiring no special equipment or telescopes.

Additional Celestial Features

During this remarkable event, observers will also notice Saturn appearing as a bright yellowish dot near the Moon. The planet will make its closest approach to the Moon on September 8 at 17:10 GMT, with a separation of just 3°30′.

Part of a Larger Eclipse Season

This total lunar eclipse will be followed by a partial solar eclipse on September 21, 2025, during which the Moon will cover up to 85.5% of the Sun. The solar eclipse will be visible from select regions, including New Zealand, southern Australia, parts of the Pacific and Atlantic, and Antarctica.