A striking crimson moon will light up skies this week during a partial lunar eclipse.
But when will it happen, what will it look like, and what causes this celestial event?
The phenomenon, known as a blood moon, occurs only a few times a year, and your next chance to see one in Ireland and the UK on the 14th of March.
A blood moon is a total lunar eclipse, which happens when the Earth moves directly between the moon and the sun.
However, only a partial eclipse will be visible—meaning just part of the moon will take on a reddish hue.
When can you see the blood moon?
The lunar eclipse will be seen between 4am and 6:50am on Friday morning, with the most striking moment occurring when the moon takes on a deep red hue.
(Getty)
Only observers in North and South America will see the full eclipse. At 3:57 am, the moon will start darkening as it moves into the Earth’s shadow. By 5:09 am, you’ll notice a distinct reddish tint.
The effect is caused by Earth blocking direct sunlight, allowing only red wavelengths to scatter through the atmosphere and reach the moon—giving it its eerie glow.
If you miss this one, there will be another opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse on the 7th of September, 2025.
However, visibility may be tricky due to the moon’s low position in the sky.
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