After the dazzling spectacle of the annual Perseids meteor shower – one of the year’s most anticipated astronomical events, which peaked in mid-August with bright streaks piercing the skies, the UK is about to witness another cosmic event next month with an even rarer occurrence: the Blood Moon lunar eclipse.
What is a Blood Moon?
A Blood Moon refers to a total lunar eclipse, a phenomenon in which the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting the Moon into the Earth’s shadow. During the peak of the eclipse, the Moon doesn’t disappear – instead, it takes on a coppery-red or orange tint.
This colour transformation is caused by Rayleigh scattering: sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere, and the shorter blue wavelengths are scattered out, leaving only the longer red wavelengths to reach and illuminate the Moon’s surface.
When and how to see the September 2025 Blood Moon
The eclipse’s maximum occurs at 7:11 PM BST on September 7, 2025, but at that moment the Moon will still be below the UK horizon.
The Moon will rise into view already in total eclipse around 7:33 PM BST. This means the very start of the spectacle is best seen in Eastern Asia, while observers in the UK and Europe will see the Moon rising already “blood red”.
As evening progresses, the Moon will gradually leave the Earth’s shadow, ending the partial eclipse phase at approximately 9:55 PM BST.
Viewing tips
Head for an elevated, unobstructed spot with a clear view to the eastern horizon, as the Moon will rise low and may be challenging to spot in early evening twilight.
The eclipse is entirely safe to watch with the naked eye; no special eyewear is required, unlike solar eclipses.
Take advantage of the unique photo opportunities as the “blood” Moon rises in the so-called Belt of Venus – a beautiful pinkish band above the eastern horizon during sunset.
Upcoming Lunar Eclipses
The September 2025 event will be the second lunar eclipse of the year, following a partial eclipse in March that was only briefly visible as the Moon set. The next total lunar eclipse after September 2025 for UK viewers will not occur for over three years, making this event one to mark on your calendars.
The Blood Moon lunar eclipse of September 2025 is set to be a memorable cosmic highlight. Grab your camera, find a good viewpoint, and enjoy one of the most dramatic sights the night sky has to offer.