Britons will have a unique opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse known as the “blood moon” this upcoming weekend. This occurrence, where the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, causing a shadow to cover the lunar surface, will be visible in the UK for the first time since 2022. During this event, the moon will appear a deep red color, resembling a “blood moon.”
The Met Office explains that the moon will take on this reddish hue due to the sunlight passing through the Earth’s atmosphere, bending and refracting light to scatter blue wavelengths and allow red light to reach the moon.
Clear skies will offer a viewing opportunity around 7:30 pm on Sunday night, with the eclipse peaking in the UK at 7:33 pm. To witness this phenomenon clearly, it is recommended to have an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. For those in urban areas, finding a hill or viewpoint may be necessary. Unlike solar eclipses, the lunar eclipse is safe to view directly with the naked eye due to the moon’s less intense reflected light.
Dr. Ed Bloomer, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, advises observers to face east as the moon rises over the UK, making it easily visible. He suggests finding a flat or elevated location for optimal visibility, ensuring no obstructions like buildings or trees hinder the view.
The lunar eclipse offers a great opportunity for families, especially with children, to observe the changes in the moon’s appearance minute by minute. Individuals keen on witnessing the eclipse should monitor the weather forecast for their area over the weekend. The clearest skies for viewing the blood moon are expected in the South West and parts of eastern England. The Royal Observatory Greenwich notes that the next partial lunar eclipse is not expected until August 2026.