How to see Sunday's 'Blood Moon' total lunar eclipse

On Sunday evening, sky-watchers in the UK and many other parts of the world will have the chance to witness a fascinating event known as the 'Blood Moon. ' This happens during a total lunar eclipse, when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight and casting a shadow over the Moon. As the Moon passes through the Earth's shadow, it takes on a deep red color, which is why people call it a 'Blood Moon. '

The total lunar eclipse will officially begin at 18:30 and last until 19:52, but people in the UK will only be able to see it once the Moon rises. The timing of moonrise depends on where you live. For example, in Norwich, the Moon will rise at 19:25, giving people there a longer view of the eclipse. In western areas like Wales and Cornwall, the Moon will rise later, so the eclipse will be visible for only a minute or two. People in Northern Ireland and western Scotland will not see the full eclipse but may catch a glimpse of the Earth's shadow crossing the Moon. Outside the UK, observers in eastern Africa, the Middle East, most of Asia, and western Australia will be able to see the entire eclipse from start to finish.

Dr Edward Bloomer, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, explained that people in the UK might not see the most dramatic red color that sometimes happens during lunar eclipses. Most people will need to wait about 10 to 20 minutes after moonrise for the Moon to be high enough to see clearly. Dr Bloomer encourages everyone to watch the eclipse because it is a great way to see how the solar system works. He says, 'This is not a special effect. There's nothing else it could be - this must be what's happening in real life in front of you. ' The last total lunar eclipse visible from the UK was in 2022.

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight and casting a shadow on the Moon's surface. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon is completely covered by Earth's shadow and often turns a striking red color. Before and after the total eclipse, the Moon goes through other phases. The penumbral lunar eclipse is a subtle event where the Moon passes through the outer part of Earth's shadow, causing a faint dimming. The partial lunar eclipse happens when only part of the Moon enters Earth's shadow, creating a visible dark segment.

The entire eclipse cycle on Sunday starts at 16:28 with the penumbral phase and ends at 21:55. The eclipse reaches its maximum at 19:11. During the total eclipse, the Moon appears red because of a phenomenon called 'Rayleigh scattering. ' This is the same effect that makes the sky blue and sunsets red. The Earth's atmosphere scatters the shorter blue wavelengths of light, allowing the longer red wavelengths to reach the Moon.

To get the best view of the eclipse, find a spot with a clear view of the horizon before moonrise. In cities, this might be a hill or a popular viewpoint. Binoculars or a telescope can help you see the details, but you do not need them to enjoy the eclipse. Unlike solar eclipses, which can damage your eyes, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye because the Moon's reflected light is not too bright.

Clouds can affect visibility, so it is a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out. Earlier in the week, it looked like clouds and rain might block the view across the UK, but the forecast has improved. Most people should have clear skies by Sunday evening, although there may still be some showers, especially in the North West.

If you miss this eclipse, the next total lunar eclipse visible in the UK will be on 28 August 2026. Mark your calendar for another chance to see this amazing celestial event.