Once In A ‘Blood Moon’: Explaining The Science Behind The ‘Chandra Grahan’ On September 7-8 | Explainers News

By Pune Media On Sep 6, 2025

Last Updated:September 06, 2025, 06:30 IST

The eclipse will be fully visible across most of Asia, including all parts of India, as well as Western Australia

The intensity and shade of red can vary depending on atmospheric conditions such as dust, pollution, or volcanic ash present at the time. Representational image

Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat as a total lunar eclipse—commonly referred to as a “Blood Moon” or “Chandra Grahan”—is set to light up the night sky on September 7-8.

The eclipse will be fully visible across most of Asia, including all parts of India, as well as Western Australia. Partial phases will be observable in parts of Europe, Africa, Eastern Australia, and New Zealand.

What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow completely over the lunar surface. This alignment causes the Moon to darken and take on a reddish hue, giving rise to the term “Blood Moon.”

Unlike solar eclipses, which require special eye protection, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. They are visible from anywhere on the night side of the Earth—provided the skies are clear.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

The reddish colour of the Moon during a total eclipse is caused by Earth’s atmosphere. As sunlight passes through the Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths (like blue and violet) are scattered, while longer wavelengths (red and orange) are refracted and bent toward the Moon. This refracted light bathes the Moon in a deep copper or crimson glow.

The intensity and shade of red can vary depending on atmospheric conditions such as dust, pollution, or volcanic ash present at the time.

Timing and Visibility

The eclipse on the night of September 7-8 will begin with the penumbral phase—when the Moon first enters Earth’s outer shadow—followed by the partial and then total phases. The totality phase, when the entire Moon is cloaked in Earth’s shadow and glows red, will last for over an hour.

In India, the entire eclipse will be visible from start to finish, offering a spectacular view for astronomy enthusiasts, skywatchers, and photographers alike.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, including in India, lunar eclipses carry religious and astrological significance. The event is traditionally known as Chandra Grahan in Sanskrit and is often associated with rituals, fasting, and specific dos and don’ts during the eclipse period.

Whether seen as a spiritual event or a scientific wonder, the upcoming Blood Moon promises to be a memorable spectacle.

Pathikrit Sen Gupta

Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He trawls X via …Read More

First Published:

September 06, 2025, 06:23 IST

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