The Blood Worm Moon will appear red as it passes through Earth’s shadow. The eclipse will be visible across the Western Hemisphere, including Parts of Europe, Africa, and the Pacific region and North & South America. The March 2025 total lunar eclipse is a spectacular event for stargazers.
Astronomy enthusiasts have an exciting event to look forward to this March. A total lunar eclipse, also known as the Blood Worm Moon, will take place on the night of March 13 and the early morning of March 14, 2025. During this event, the moon will appear red as it passes through Earth’s shadow.
What Causes a Lunar Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse happens when the sun, Earth, and moon align, causing Earth’s shadow to cover the moon. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire moon moves into the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, giving it a reddish hue. This effect occurs because Earth’s atmosphere filters sunlight, allowing only red and orange light to reach the moon’s surface.
Where and When to Watch
The eclipse will be visible across the Western Hemisphere, including North and South America, parts of Europe, Africa, and the Pacific region. The full moon will reach its peak at 06:55 UTC on March 14 (1:55 AM CDT). The total eclipse phase will last approximately 66 minutes, with the moon fully covered in shadow from 06:26 to 07:32 UTC (1:26 AM to 2:32 AM CDT).
Why Is It Called the Worm Moon?
March’s full moon is traditionally called the Worm Moon because, as spring approaches, earthworms begin to reappear in the soil. The name originates from early Native American and European traditions that associated moon cycles with seasonal changes. Other names for this full moon include the Crow Moon, Sugar Moon, and Wind Strong Moon.
Additional Celestial Sights
Alongside the Blood Worm Moon, Jupiter and Mars will be visible in the western sky. If conditions are right, some areas may also experience a rare phenomenon called a moonbow—a nighttime rainbow created by moonlight instead of sunlight.
How to Watch
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye. Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience, revealing more details of the moon’s surface. For those in regions where visibility may be obstructed, several observatories and space agencies will live stream the event online.
The March 2025 total lunar eclipse is a remarkable event for stargazers. Whether watching from home or through a livestream, this celestial show is one not to miss!