The May 2022 total lunar eclipse, captured by local photographer Abe Snider.
Some Fast Facts About the 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse
Written in collaboration with Lowell Historian and PIO Kevin Schindler
On the evening of March 13, 2025, skywatchers across North America will be treated to a stunning total lunar eclipse—the first one since 2022. This celestial event, often referred to as a Blood Moon, occurs when Earth’s shadow completely covers the Moon, causing it to glow a deep red hue.
Northern Arizona and much of the western U.S. will have prime viewing conditions, making this a must-see astronomical event. Here’s everything you need to know about the March 2025 total lunar eclipse, including how and when to watch.
What Happens During a Total Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse happens only when the Moon is in its full phase and aligns perfectly with the Sun and Earth. This alignment places Earth directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow across the lunar surface.
During a lunar eclipse, the Moon passes through two parts of Earth’s shadow:
- The Penumbra – The outer, lighter part of Earth’s shadow. This phase is subtle and often goes unnoticed.
- The Umbra – The darker, central part of the shadow. When the Moon enters this region, the eclipse becomes much more dramatic.
If the entire Moon moves into the umbra, a total lunar eclipse occurs, creating the deep red or coppery glow that earns it the nickname ‘Blood Moon.’
When and Where to Watch the March 2025 Eclipse
Viewers in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona, and across North America will have front-row seats to the full eclipse. Here’s the exact timing of each phase of the eclipse in Mountain Standard Time (MST):
- 8:57 p.m. MST – Penumbral eclipse begins (subtle shading)
- 10:09 p.m. MST – Partial (umbral) eclipse begins (Moon starts darkening)
- 11:26 p.m. MST – Total eclipse begins (Moon turns red)
- 11:58 p.m. MST – Maximum eclipse (deepest red hue)
- 12:31 a.m. MST – Total eclipse ends
- 1:47 a.m. MST – Partial eclipse ends
- 3:00 a.m. MST – Penumbral eclipse ends
Best Tips for Viewing the Blood Moon
- Find a Dark Sky Location – The eclipse will be visible with the naked eye, but viewing from a dark, high-elevation spot like Flagstaff, Arizona, will enhance the experience.
- Check the Weather – Clear skies are essential for an unobstructed view. Check the Flagstaff weather forecast ahead of time.
- Use Binoculars or a Telescope – While not necessary, magnification can enhance details of the Moon’s surface and shadow transitions.
- Capture the Moment – A camera with a telephoto lens or a smartphone attached to a telescope can capture stunning images of the Blood Moon.
Why does the Moon Turn Red During a Lunar Eclipse?
During totality, the Moon takes on a reddish hue due to a phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering—the same effect that makes sunrises and sunsets appear red. Earth’s atmosphere bends sunlight, filtering out shorter blue wavelengths while allowing longer red wavelengths to reach the Moon.
Don’t Miss This Rare Celestial Event!
The March 13, 2025, total lunar eclipse is a rare and spectacular astronomical event. With North America in the perfect line of sight, this is an incredible opportunity for stargazers, photographers, and astronomy enthusiasts to witness a Blood Moon in all of its glory.
Mark your calendars, find a clear viewing spot, and enjoy one of the most breathtaking lunar events of the year!
Exclusive Members-Only Lunar Eclipse Viewing Party at Lowell Observatory
Experience the magic of the March 13, 2025, total lunar eclipse at a special members-only viewing event at Lowell Observatory! Watch as the Moon turns a deep red hue during totality while exploring the night sky through our state-of-the-art telescopes at the Giovale Open Deck Observatory (GODO).
This exclusive event offers a front-row seat to one of the year’s most anticipated celestial events. However, please note that this event is weather-dependent and may be canceled if conditions prevent clear viewing.
Not a member yet? Join today for access to this and other exclusive events! Become a member here.