Sky-watchers across the UK are in for a breathtaking experience this Sunday evening as a total lunar eclipse will transform the full Moon into a stunning red spectacle, commonly referred to as a Blood Moon. As the Moon passes through the Earth’s shadow, it will take on a deep red hue, creating a captivating sight for all astronomy enthusiasts. Although the eclipse will begin while the Moon is still below the horizon in the UK, it will rise into total eclipse around 19:30 BST, coinciding with sunset, allowing observers to enjoy the second half of this celestial show.
The last total lunar eclipse visible from the UK occurred in 2022. This upcoming event will commence with the penumbral phase at 16:28 BST (17:28 UTC), when the Moon first drifts into Earth's faint outer shadow. The excitement builds as the partial eclipse begins at 17:27 BST (18:27 UTC), marking the moment the Moon enters the Earth's dark central shadow, known as the umbra. The eclipse reaches its maximum at around 19:11 BST, just 20 minutes before the Moon rises in the UK, offering a unique opportunity to witness its scarlet glory before it gradually moves out of Earth's shadow.
Dr. Edward Bloomer, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, shared insights on the experience: "In the UK, we won't get to see perhaps the most dramatic reddening that you get with lunar eclipses. Most people will have to wait another 10 to 20 minutes after moonrise for it to clear the horizon. But it's worth watching because you get to see the mechanics of the solar system at play. This is not a special effect; there's nothing else it could be – this must be what's happening in real life in front of you."
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight and casting a shadow across the Moon's surface. There are three primary types of lunar eclipses:
Total lunar eclipse – The Moon is completely engulfed by Earth's shadow, often resulting in a striking red appearance. Partial lunar eclipse – Only a portion of the Moon passes into Earth's shadow, leading to a visible dark segment. Penumbral lunar eclipse – A more subtle phenomenon where the Moon travels through the outer part of Earth's shadow, causing a faint dimming.Lunar eclipses are often called Blood Moons due to the reddish hue the Moon takes on during these events. Historically, many cultures perceived this phenomenon as a bad omen. However, Dr. Bloomer clarifies, "It's just the refraction of light through Earth's atmosphere – the same effect that gives us red sunsets." This reddish appearance is scientifically explained by a phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering, which scatters shorter blue wavelength light while allowing longer red wavelengths to remain visible. As a result, the light illuminating the Moon during a lunar eclipse appears as if every sunrise and sunset on Earth is being cast upon its surface.
To maximize your experience of the eclipse, find a location with a clear view of the horizon before 19:30 BST. Ideal spots might include hills or popular viewpoints in your area. If you have binoculars or a telescope, they can enhance your viewing experience. Unlike solar eclipses, which can be harmful to view directly, lunar eclipses are safe for the eyes, as the Moon's reflected light is not bright enough to cause damage.
Keep in mind that cloud cover may impact visibility, so it's wise to check your local weather conditions beforehand. If you miss this lunar eclipse, don't worry—mark your calendars for the next opportunity to witness a lunar eclipse visible in the UK on 28 August 2026.
