Stargazers across the UK are set for a celestial spectacle as a partial lunar eclipse graces the early morning sky on Friday. Although the eclipse will not be total in the UK, it will still offer a striking view, weather permitting.
The phenomenon occurs when Earth casts its shadow on the Moon, partially obscuring it. As the eclipse progresses, the Moon will darken before turning a dusky red, creating the striking visual effect known as a “blood moon.”
The last total lunar eclipse visible in the UK took place in 2022, making this event a rare opportunity for skywatchers.
Timings for the Eclipse
The lunar eclipse will unfold in stages, beginning with the penumbral phase, when the Moon first enters Earth’s outer shadow at 03:57 GMT. The partial eclipse, during which the Moon starts moving into the darker part of Earth’s shadow, will commence at 05:09 GMT.
For UK observers, the most dramatic part of the eclipse will occur at 06:19 GMT when the maximum partial eclipse is visible. However, the Moon will set before the eclipse reaches its true peak at 06:58 GMT, meaning the final stages will be hidden from view.
For those in North America, most of South America, and western Greenland, the eclipse will be total, offering a more dramatic celestial display.
“Even if you have to get up super early to see it, I would definitely recommend that you try because seeing it in real life is really, really cool,” said Imo Bell, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich.
What is a Lunar Eclipse and a Blood Moon?
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon’s surface. There are three main types:
- Total lunar eclipse: The entire Moon is engulfed in Earth’s shadow, turning red.
- Partial lunar eclipse: Only part of the Moon enters Earth’s shadow, creating a visible dark section.
- Penumbral lunar eclipse: A subtle event where the Moon moves through Earth’s outer shadow, causing a slight dimming.
The reddish hue seen during a lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “blood moon,” is due to Rayleigh scattering. This process scatters shorter blue wavelengths of light, allowing longer red wavelengths to pass through Earth’s atmosphere and illuminate the Moon.
“During a lunar eclipse, all of the light shining onto the Moon has passed through Earth’s atmosphere,” explained Bell. “It’s as if every sunrise and sunset in the world is projected onto the lunar surface.”
How to See It?
To witness the partial lunar eclipse, experts advise heading to a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the western horizon. “My top tip would be to make sure you have a good view of the western horizon, because the Moon will be setting in that direction,” said Bell.
Observers should also consider using a red torch to help their eyes adjust to the darkness and check the weather forecast to ensure visibility.
While lunar eclipses occur every few years, visibility can be impacted by cloud cover. The next lunar eclipse visible in the UK will take place on 7 September 2025, making this week’s event a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
