WGOLV.COM - The moon will put on quite the show tonight!
Skywatchers across the U.S. will witness the moon turning red tonight, but observing this total lunar eclipse requires being in the right location at the right moment.
The total lunar eclipse will happen overnight tonight (March 13-14) during March's full moon, with the maximum eclipse occurring at 2:59 a.m. EDT (6:59 GMT) on March 14.
It is the first total lunar eclipse visible anywhere in the world since November 2022. and will also be the first of three happening between 2025 and 2026, according to Space.com.
The total lunar eclipse will be completely visible throughout North America and much of South America, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile during totality. Western Europe and sections of West Africa will witness totality at moonset. In New Zealand, the eclipse will be partially visible as the moon rises on March 14.
When does a Lunar Eclipse occur?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the sun, Earth, and moon line up such that Earth casts a shadow on the lunar surface.
During "totality," the moon moves through Earth's umbra, the dark center of its shadow, giving rise to the red-hued "Blood Moon".
The following are totality phase timings across North America by time zone:
2:26 to 3:31 a.m. EDT on Friday, March 14, 2025
1:26 to 2:31 a.m. CDT on Friday, March 14, 2025
12:26 to 1:31 a.m. MDT on Friday, March 14, 2025
11:26 p.m. PDT on Thursday, March 13, 2025, to 12:31 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025
10:26 p.m. to 11:31 p.m. AKDT on Thursday, March 13, 2025
8:26 p.m. to 9:31 p.m. HST on Thursday, March 13, 2025
All in all, from the beginning of the first glimpse of the penumbral phase to the very end, the lunar eclipse will last 6 hours and 3 minutes, according to TimeandDate.
Unlike a solar eclipse, which necessitates specialized solar viewing equipment and suitable eye protection, a lunar eclipse can be safely and easily observed with the naked eye.
What to know if you want to photograph the lunar eclipse:
If you wish to photograph the lunar eclipse, you'll need the appropriate gear, preparation, and camera settings.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera is recommended, along with either a wide-angle lens for landscape captures or a telephoto lens for close-ups. A sturdy tripod is crucial to keep your shots stable, and using a remote shutter release or interval timer helps prevent camera shake.
To achieve sharp images, shoot in manual mode with a low ISO (100-200), an aperture of f/5.6 to f/8, and adjust the shutter speed based on the eclipse phase—longer exposures for totality, shorter for brighter phases. Always manually focus on the moon's edge for clarity.
Remember to check the weather forecast in advance and use apps like PhotoPills to plan your shot. Bring extra batteries and memory cards, and if possible, use a star tracker to keep the moon centered.
Watch Live:
If you cannot watch the eclipse in person, you can watch all the eclipse action live here on Space.com and keep up to date with the latest lunar eclipse news and events with their lunar eclipse live blog.
You can find a more in-depth explanation in how to photograph a lunar eclipse by checking the following link: how to photograph a lunar eclipse guide.
You can also read more on Space.com:
If you enjoy the articles and content of What's going on in the Lehigh Valley, a donation would be greatly appreciated to help with the ongoing costs and time involved each day. All news articles and content have been 100% free of charge for over 14 years.
Purchasing products on the website helps as well. You can also subscribe to the Facebook page for extra content - behind the scenes, discounts/coupons, information on bus trips, events.
WGOLV also loves to give back and help the community.
WGOLV is a mom-owned and run company in the Lehigh Valley - not backed by corporations or donors - It is all self-funded. We also specialize in small business and event promotion. We earn no income other than occasional donations or subscribing to the Facebook page, or occasional ads.
Thank you.