A total lunar eclipse will transform the moon into a striking red hue from Thursday night into Friday morning, visible across the Western Hemisphere.
North and South America will offer the best views while some regions in Africa and Europe may also catch a glimpse of the event.
Lunar eclipses occur when the moon, Earth, and sun align perfectly causing the Earth to cast a shadow that can partially or completely obscure the moon. During a partial lunar eclipse, it appears as though a portion of the moon is being bitten away, while a total eclipse results in the entire moon being covered and taking on a coppery red color due to sunlight filtering through the Earth's atmosphere.
According to NASA, lunar and solar eclipses can happen between four to seven times a year. A partial lunar eclipse was visible in the Americas, Africa, and Europe last September, and the last total lunar eclipse occurred in 2022.
The so-called "blood moon" will be visible for approximately one hour, beginning at 2:26am Eastern time on Friday, with peak visibility around 3am. To witness the eclipse, simply step outside and look up; no special equipment or eclipse glasses are necessary.
However, the moon's position may make it more challenging to see the eclipse in certain places.
If you miss this lunar spectacle, be sure to mark your calendar for September 7th when another total lunar eclipse will be visible in parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe, with the next opportunity for the Americas occurring in March 2026.
Experience the Moon's Red Glow During This Week's Total Lunar Eclipse