On the night of September 7–8, 2025, skywatchers across India will be treated to a rare celestial spectacle—a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon. As
On the night of September 7–8, 2025, skywatchers across India will be treated to a rare celestial spectacle—a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon. As Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, our planet’s shadow will cloak the lunar surface, bathing it in a haunting reddish-orange glow. This is the second total lunar eclipse of 2025 and the last one for the year.
Here’s a breakdown of the eclipse phases in Indian Standard Time:
| Eclipse Phase | Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Penumbral Begins | 8:58 PM, September 7 |
| Partial Eclipse Begins | 9:57–9:58 PM |
| Totality Begins | ~11:00 PM |
| Maximum Eclipse (Peak) | ~11:41–11:42 PM |
| Totality Ends | ~12:22 AM, September 8 |
| Eclipse Ends (Penumbral Ends) | ~1:26 AM (some sources say up to ~2:25 AM) |
A total lunar eclipse turns the Moon red due to Rayleigh scattering—similar to the fiery hues of sunrise or sunset. As Earth obstructs direct sunlight, only longer red and orange wavelengths are refracted through our atmosphere and strike the Moon.
With 82 minutes of totality, this Blood Moon is one of the longest eclipses of the decade. It occurs just a few days before the Moon reaches perigee, making it appear slightly larger and enhancing the visual drama.
The eclipse will be visible from all across India—from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to smaller towns. Watching away from city lights will improve visibility. No special eyewear is needed—it’s perfectly safe to observe with the naked eye or binoculars.
In Hindu tradition, the Sutak period—an inauspicious time—begins 9 hours before the eclipse (around 12:59 PM on September 7) and ends when eclipse concludes. Many observe fasting, refrain from cooking, and avoid rituals during this window. It also occurs during Pitru Paksha, a time for paying respects to ancestors.
Astronomers appreciate this eclipse for its long duration, while spiritual adherents view it as a time for reflection, prayer, and purification. It’s a beautiful fusion of natural wonder and cultural depth.
Sept 7–8 offers a breathtaking lunar event: a long, vibrant Blood Moon clearly visible from India. Mark your calendar, plan an early night, pick a good viewing spot, and enjoy one of nature’s most mesmerizing light shows.
FAQs
The total lunar eclipse (Blood Moon) will occur on the night of September 7–8, 2025, visible across India.
Penumbral begins: ~8:58 PM; Partial starts: ~9:57–9:58 PM; Totality: ~11:00–11:42 PM; Ends: ~12:22 AM; Final shadow ends by ~1:26–2:25 AM.
Earth blocks direct sunlight; red/orange wavelengths refract through the atmosphere and illuminate the Moon, producing the “Blood Moon” effect.
Yes! Unlike solar eclipses, total lunar eclipses are safe to observe with the naked eye or binoculars.
Yes—Hindus often observe a Sutak period starting around midday of September 7 and lasting until the eclipse ends. Activities like cooking or rituals are usually avoided during this time.
