New Delhi: Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat tonight as a total lunar eclipse, widely referred to as a ‘Blood Moon’, is set to unfold, bathing the Moon in a striking red-orange hue for more than an hour. India is among the prime locations to experience the spectacle in its entirety.
What causes the Blood Moon?
A total lunar eclipse takes place when Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon. As the Earth’s shadow engulfs the lunar surface, the Moon takes on a deep crimson shade, giving rise to the dramatic ‘Blood Moon’ effect.
This evening’s event will be visible to nearly 85 percent of the global population, spanning Asia, much of Africa, parts of Europe, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Viewing schedule for India (IST)
Residents across India will be able to witness every phase of the eclipse from start to finish. The duration of the total eclipse will stretch for 82 minutes.
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8:58 pm, Sept 7 – Penumbral eclipse begins
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9:57 pm, Sept 7 – Partial eclipse begins
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11:00 pm, Sept 7 – Total eclipse begins
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11:41 pm, Sept 7 – Maximum eclipse
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12:22 am, Sept 8 – Total eclipse ends
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1:26 am, Sept 8 – Partial eclipse ends
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2:25 am, Sept 8 – Penumbral eclipse ends
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are perfectly safe to observe with the naked eye, though telescopes and binoculars will offer sharper views and photographic opportunities.
Best vantage points
Cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad will witness clear views, while locations such as Spiti Valley, Nubra Valley, Sariska, Coorg, Rann of Kutch, Matheran, and Neil Island are expected to offer breathtaking vistas under darker skies.
