On September 7-8, 2025, India will be treated to a spectacular celestial event: a total lunar eclipse, often called a "Blood Moon" or Chandra Grahan. This event will be widely visible across India, as well as in Asia, Australia, parts of Europe, and eastern Africa. During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the Moon. As sunlight filters through the Earth's atmosphere, it scatters, and longer wavelengths like red and orange bend and reach the Moon, giving it a reddish hue.

The lunar eclipse will progress through several phases. The penumbral eclipse begins at 8:58 PM IST on September 7, when the Earth's faint outer shadow starts to touch the Moon. The partial eclipse follows at 9:57 PM IST, as the Moon enters the Earth's darker umbral shadow, gradually turning reddish. The total eclipse, or Blood Moon phase, commences at 11:00 PM IST on September 7, when the Moon is fully immersed in the Earth's umbral shadow, turning a complete red. The maximum eclipse occurs at 11:41 PM IST on September 7, marking the point when the Moon is closest to the center of the Earth's shadow. The total eclipse ends at 12:22 AM IST on September 8, as the Moon starts to move out of the Earth's shadow. The partial eclipse concludes at 1:26 AM IST on September 8, and the penumbral eclipse ends at 2:25 AM IST on September 8, when the Moon fully exits the Earth's shadow.

The total eclipse phase will last for approximately 82 minutes, making it one of the longest and most striking lunar eclipses in recent years. This extended duration provides ample time to witness the Moon's transformation into a deep red color. The color's intensity can vary depending on atmospheric conditions, including dust, pollution, and weather patterns.

This celestial event will be widely visible across India, with major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai offering clear views of the Blood Moon. Skywatchers in these and other cities can observe the eclipse without any special equipment, as lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye. While binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the details, they are not necessary to enjoy the spectacle. For those unable to view the eclipse in person, it will be livestreamed on platforms such as The Virtual Telescope Project and Time and Date.

Adding to the uniqueness of this event, the eclipse occurs just 2.7 days before the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth, known as perigee. This proximity makes the Moon appear slightly larger and brighter than usual.

This total lunar eclipse is a great opportunity for people of all ages to witness the beauty of the night sky. With its long duration, striking red color, and wide visibility, the Blood Moon of September 7-8, 2025, promises to be a memorable celestial event.