Looking for something to do tonight? Well, just step outside and look up. On the night of March 13 to 14, 2025, the U.S. will get a front-row seat to a lunar eclipse, turning the moon a deep, eerie red. It’s a Blood Moon, folks, and all you need to do is show up to see it.
What’s a Blood Moon, anyway?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that makes the moon glow in shades of red and orange. This spooky effect is thanks to Rayleigh scattering, the same science magic that makes the sky blue and sunsets Instagram-worthy.
How to watch the lunar eclipse in the U.S.
Unlike last year’s solar eclipse, which had people scrambling for eclipse glasses, lunar eclipses are pretty low-lift events—just go outside. No special gear required.
For the best view, find a dark-sky spot—somewhere far from city lights, like a national park or open field.
When to look up to see the lunar eclipse
The eclipse unfolds over several hours, so you’ve got options but do note your time zone:
11:57pm EDT (March 13) – Partial eclipse begins (the Moon enters Earth’s shadow).
1:09am EDT (March 14) – The Moon moves into Earth’s darkest shadow (umbra).
2:26am EDT – Total eclipse begins (hello, Blood Moon!)
2:59am. EDT – Maximum eclipse (peak drama)
3:31am EDT – The Moon starts exiting the umbra
4:48am EDT – Almost done
5:59am EDT – Eclipse officially over
Not on Eastern Time? Adjust accordingly (10:57pm CDT, 9:57pm MDT, 8:57pm PDT).
Can you photograph the lunar eclipse?
Sure, and here are a few tips:
DSLR users: Try ISO 400, f/8 aperture, 300–500mm focal length and adjust shutter speed as needed.
Smartphone users: Zoom in, lower exposure, and maybe shoot video—because let’s be honest, you’ll want proof.
Missed the 2025 lunar eclipse? Here's when you can catch the next one.
If you somehow sleep through it, don’t worry—the next total lunar eclipse is on March 3, 2026.