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Stargazers are set for a spectacular treat as the year's second total lunar eclipse approaches this weekend. This astronomical event will likely be observable across numerous regions globally, including Britain, without requiring any specialist viewing gear.
Often mistaken for solar eclipses, a lunar eclipse actually happens when a full Moon passes through Earth's shadow, known as the 'umbra'. Dr Shyam Balaji, an astrophysics expert from King's College London, explained that the eclipse's 'deepest phase' will be visible from Britain at 7.45pm BST, just after the Moon rises.
"The total lunar eclipse happens on Sunday, 7 September 2025," he said. "In the UK, the Moon will rise already partly in eclipse. Totality will be visible shortly after moonrise, with the deepest phase around 19:45 BST.
"It will be widely visible across Europe (including the UK), Asia, Africa, and Australia. In the Americas, only parts of the eclipse will be seen at moonrise or not at all."
Fascinatingly, the phenomenon will give rise to a 'Blood Moon', which will likewise be observable throughout much of Africa and Europe, amongst other locations. Despite its eerie-sounding name, a 'Blood Moon' simply describes the Moon's characteristic copper-red hue witnessed during a lunar eclipse.
Dr Balaji continued: "A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, and the Moon enters Earth's shadow. Sunlight bending through Earth's atmosphere filters out blue light and often gives the Moon a reddish or coppery hue."
Total lunar eclipses occur fairly regularly, roughly every two to three years. However, this year is especially interesting because there are two eclipses - one in March and another in September.
During the latest total lunar eclipse, which took place between March 13 and 14, the Blood Moon appeared less dark than usual. It's believed this was mainly due to the Moon not travelling through the deepest part of Earth's shadow, resulting in a more vibrant red, copper-like appearance.
Those hoping to catch September's Blood Moon can use smartphone applications such as Sky Tonight for more precise, location-specific information regarding timings. No specialist equipment is required to witness the spectacle, although binoculars will improve your viewing experience.
Dr Balaji added: "To view the eclipse, choose a clear eastern horizon, as the Moon will be low when it rises. Once you have a location, my tips would be to allow your eyes to adjust for 10-15 minutes, [and use] binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the view.
"If you want to capture good photos that aren't blurry, a tripod is a great accessory. If it happens to be cloudy, you can always catch the eclipse on livestreams on the internet. And if all else fails, there is another eclipse later in the month - a partial solar eclipse on 21 September 2025."
When observing the night sky, it is also recommended to avoid light pollution and review weather forecasts in advance. Guidance from the Royal Museums Greenwich has recommended: "Plan ahead and check the weather forecast. If it is likely to be inclement, find a different location or go out on a different day.
"The days leading up to the peak are usually better than the days after. Reduce the amount of light pollution in your field of view. This could mean heading out to the countryside, a nearby park or even turning your back to street lamps if you're not able to go anywhere."
Following September, the next partial lunar eclipse is expected on August 28, 2026.