It is considered that this is the first time since July 27, 2018, that the skies are set to treat us to a full, total lunar eclipse visible from all places! On the night of September 7–8, 2025, skywatchers across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia will witness a mesmerizing “Blood Moon”, glowing deep red for an astonishing 82–83 minutes of totality—one of the longest lunar eclipses of the decade.
As the full Harvest Moon (or Corn Moon) rises that night, Earth will slip between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow over the lunar surface. During this cosmic alignment, sunlight bending through Earth’s atmosphere will filter out blue light and scatter only red hues onto the Moon – creating the dramatic crimson effect we know as the Blood Moon.
And unlike solar eclipses, no special equipment is needed; you can safely watch the entire phenomenon with the naked eye.
Why This Eclipse Is Unique
Several factors make the September 2025 lunar eclipse stand out:
- Long Duration: With nearly an hour and a half of totality, it’s the longest lunar eclipse of the year and among the longest in many years.
- Near Perigee (Supermoon Effect): Occurring just a few days before the Moon’s closest approach to Earth, the Moon will appear slightly larger and brighter.
- Widespread Visibility: Nearly 77% of the world’s population will be able to see the eclipse in full or in part. In countries like India, the entire event will be visible from start to finish, making it especially memorable.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Across cultures, lunar eclipses have long been seen as powerful, transformative times:
Hindu Tradition: Eclipses are linked to the story of Rahu, the celestial being who swallows the Sun or Moon. Rather than being inauspicious, many scriptures highlight that eclipses are spiritually potent – the best time for prayer, chanting, and meditation.
Universal Symbolism: Eclipses symbolize the cycle of light and shadow, reminding us that periods of darkness are temporary and followed by renewal. This makes it a natural moment for self-reflection and inner growth.
What can we do?
The long duration of this eclipse makes it an ideal time for mantra chanting and spiritual practice. You can sit quietly and meditate throughout the eclipse, allowing the mind to settle into stillness. Since sacred sounds are believed to carry greater resonance during eclipses, choose a mantra and repeat it softly or silently.
- Om Namah Shivaya – invokes transformation and inner consciousness.
- Gayatri Mantra – a prayer for divine wisdom and clarity.
Even a simple repetition of “Om” with mindful breathing can bring calmness and uplift your spirit. Traditionally, chanting 27 or 108 times with mala beads is practiced, but what truly matters is your sincerity and intention.
Lunar Eclipse Time duration:
The lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025, will begin at 9:58 PM IST, reach its maximum at 11:42 PM IST, and conclude at 1:26 AM IST on September 8. Lasting for about 3 hours and 28 minutes, this eclipse will be visible to the naked eye.
