This guide will answer all your questions, from what time is the blood moon tonight to the science behind why the moon turns red.

At a Glance: The September 7, 2025 Lunar Eclipse

• What: A Total Lunar Eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon.

• Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025.

• Main Visibility: The full eclipse will be visible across North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia.

• Moon Phase: This event happens during a full moon, specifically the Full Moon of September 2025, which is also known as the Harvest Moon.

What Time is the Blood Moon Tonight? (September 7, 2025)

The most important question is what time will the blood moon be visible. The eclipse happens in several stages. Here are the key times for major US time zones.

So, if you're wondering what time is the lunar eclipse on September 7, the most dramatic "red moon" phase will be visible for over an hour, peaking around 10:12 PM Eastern Time.

Why is the Moon Red Tonight? The Science of a Blood Moon

During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. So why does the moon turn red instead of going completely dark?

The answer is Earth's atmosphere.

Think of it like a sunset. As sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere, the blue light is scattered away, while the red and orange light passes through. This reddish light is bent, or "refracted," into Earth's shadow and illuminates the Moon. You are essentially seeing all of the sunrises and sunsets of the world projected onto the moon tonight. This is what gives the blood moon total lunar eclipse its spectacular reddish-orange glow.

Lunar Eclipse vs. Solar Eclipse: What's the Difference?

It's easy to get these two events mixed up.

• A Lunar Eclipse (like the Blood Moon) is when the Earth's shadow covers the Moon. It's safe to look at directly.

• A Solar Eclipse is when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, blocking the Sun. It is extremely dangerous to look at a solar eclipse without special eye protection.

The eclipse on September 7, 2025, is a lunar eclipse.

The Harvest Moon Connection

The full moon in September is traditionally known as the Harvest Moon or sometimes the Corn Moon. It's the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. The fact that the total lunar eclipse blood moon 2025 happens on the Harvest Moon makes this event extra special.

How to Watch the Blood Moon

1. Check the Time: Use the chart above to find out what time the blood moon will be visible in your area.

2. Find a Clear View: Get away from tall buildings and bright city lights if you can. A park or open field is ideal.

3. No Special Equipment Needed: Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to view with your naked eye.

4. Use Binoculars or a Telescope: To get an incredible, up-close view of the red and orange hues on the lunar surface, binoculars or a small telescope are fantastic tools.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What time is the eclipse today?
If today is September 7, 2025, the total eclipse (the "blood moon" part) begins at 9:31 PM EDT. Check the chart above for your specific time zone.

When is the next blood moon?
Total lunar eclipses happen periodically. After the September 7, 2025 event, you can check astronomical calendars for the next one visible in your region.

Is tonight a full moon?
If it's September 7, 2025, then yes! A total lunar eclipse can only happen during the full moon phase.

Why is the moon orange tonight?
The orange or red color is caused by sunlight filtering and bending through Earth's atmosphere, in the same way that sunsets appear red. This reddish light is then projected onto the Moon.

What time is the lunar eclipse in California?
For California (PDT), the total lunar eclipse in 2025 begins at 6:31 PM on September 7th, with the maximum eclipse at 7:12 PM.