In just a few days, the night sky will gift us one of the most captivating astronomical phenomena: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a ‘blood moon’ due to the reddish hue our satellite acquires. This event, which will occur on the night of Sunday, September 7, will be especially visible in Spain, with optimal conditions in regions like Aragón, where clear skies and the absence of natural obstacles promise unparalleled observation.
The total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth interposes itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the latter. Unlike solar eclipses, it does not require eye protection, as the Moon simply darkens and turns red due to the refraction of sunlight through our atmosphere. This atmospheric filter redirects blue rays and allows the reds to pass, creating a dramatic visual effect that has fascinated humanity since ancient times.
According to data from the National Geographic Institute (IGN) of Spain, confirmed by NASA, this will be the second total lunar eclipse of 2025, following the one on March 14, which was not fully observable in much of the country because the Moon set before the total phase. This time, the phenomenon will be accessible to most Spaniards, marking a milestone as a similar event visible from Europe will not occur again for several years.
Timing and phases of the eclipse
The spectacle will begin in the evening of Sunday, September 7, and extend until the early hours of Monday the 8th. The timings, in local peninsular time (CEST, UTC+2), are as follows:
- Penumbral eclipse begins: 5:28 PM (the Moon begins to enter the Earth’s dim shadow, a subtle change).
- Partial eclipse begins: 6:27 PM (the penumbral shadow starts to cover the Moon).
- Totality begins: 7:31 PM (the Moon completely enters the umbra, acquiring the reddish hue).
- Maximum eclipse: 8:11 PM (peak moment, with the Moon appearing the darkest and reddest).
- End of totality: 8:53 PM.
- End of partial eclipse: 9:56 PM.
- End of penumbral eclipse: 10:55 PM.
The total duration of the penumbral phase will be approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes, with totality lasting 1 hour and 22 minutes. The magnitude of the eclipse will reach 1.36, meaning that the Moon will be over 36% covered by the darkest shadow, providing an impressive spectacle.
Where to observe: Aragón, a privileged viewpoint
In Spain, the eclipse will be fully visible across almost the entire Iberian Peninsula, the Balearic Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla. However, in the most western areas of Galicia and the Canary Islands, the Moon will rise after the end of the total phase, limiting observation to partial or penumbral stages.
Aragón stands out as one of the best places to enjoy the event. With its location in the northeastern part of the peninsula, the Moon will rise early, and the eclipse will unfold in all its splendor under skies that, according to forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), could be clear this weekend, without excessive heat or strong winds interfering. Places like the Monegros desert or the pre-Pyrenean mountains offer elevated spots with minimal light pollution, ideal for amateur astronomers and families. If you reside in Huesca, Teruel, or Zaragoza, prepare your binoculars or telescopes: sophisticated equipment is not needed, but these enhance the details of the cratered Moon tinted red.
For those preferring a more organized approach, observatories like Calar Alto in Andalucía or the Planetarium of Aragón in Walqa (Huesca) may offer special sessions, although it is advisable to check their programs in advance.
Global visibility and tips for Ibero-America
This eclipse is part of the Saros cycle 137 and will be observable in its entirety from Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, encompassing about 85% of the world’s population. Unfortunately, for our readers in Ibero-America—from Mexico to Argentina—the phenomenon will occur during the day or before the Moon rises, making it invisible directly. However, platforms like NASA’s YouTube channel or the Time and Date website will offer live broadcasts from telescopes in Europe and Africa, allowing you to enjoy the ‘blood moon’ in real-time.
Practical tips for everyone:
– Find a dark place, away from urban lights.
– Use apps like Star Walk or SkySafari to track the Moon’s position.
– If the weather doesn’t cooperate, opt for online streams.
– Remember: it is safe to watch it with the naked eye, but avoid confusing it with solar eclipses.
This eclipse is not just a visual delight but also an opportunity to reflect on our position in the cosmos. In a fast-paced world, pausing to contemplate the sky connects us with the wonder of astronomy. Don’t miss it: mark September 7 on your calendar and look up to the heavens.
