The Science Behind Today’s Total Lunar Eclipse and Blood Moon

Today skywatchers across most of the world will witness one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles — a total lunar eclipse, often called a Blood Moon.

What Happens During a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the near side of the Moon passes through the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra. When this alignment is exact, the Moon appears to vanish into darkness before slowly glowing again in shades of copper and red.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red (Blood Moon)?

The crimson glow of a Blood Moon during a total lunar eclipse is caused by Earth’s atmosphere.

As sunlight passes through the atmosphere, shorter wavelengths (on the blue side of the spectrum) are scattered away. The longer red and orange wavelengths pass through and fall onto the lunar surface, painting it in warm hues. This phenomenon is called Rayleigh scattering, the same process that gives us red sunsets.

The Rarity of the Event

Total lunar eclipses are not everyday occurrences. They happen only when three conditions align:

• Full Moon phase.

• The Sun, Earth, and Moon must be in a straight line.

• The Moon must pass through Earth’s umbra.

  
  

Even though lunar eclipses occur more often than solar eclipses, a total lunar eclipse that creates a striking Blood Moon is rare enough to draw global attention.

Observing the Eclipse

Binoculars or a telescope help enhance the view, revealing details of the lunar surface as it slips into shadow. For many, simply stepping outside under a clear sky is enough to experience the wonder. If you watch the totality today, please share the images in comments below!