Total Lunar Eclipse and Blood Moon Over Canada: When and How to Watch
A total lunar eclipse will light up the night sky over Ontario and across Canada on March 13-14, 2025. This rare celestial event will feature a stunning blood moon, making it a must-see for skywatchers.
When to See the March 2025 Lunar Eclipse
The worm moon, March’s full moon, will peak at 2:55 a.m. (ET) on March 14, 2025. The total lunar eclipse will last approximately six hours, with the best view of totality between 2:26 a.m. and 3:31 a.m.
Key Moon Phases for March 2025:
- First quarter: March 6
- Full moon: March 14
- Last quarter: March 22
- New moon: March 29
What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow over the moon’s surface. Unlike solar eclipses, total lunar eclipses can last up to two hours and are safe to view without eye protection.
During this event, the moon will move through Earth’s umbra, the darkest part of its shadow, causing it to take on a deep red hue known as the blood moon effect.
Why is it Called a Blood Moon?
A blood moon happens when Earth’s atmosphere bends sunlight around the planet, filtering out blue light and casting a reddish glow onto the moon. The effect is caused by scattering from the atmosphere, similar to the colors seen during a sunrise or sunset.
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Why is it Called a Worm Moon?
The March full moon is traditionally called the worm moon because it marks the time when earthworms and other invertebrates emerge as the ground thaws. This signals the return of spring and provides food for birds and other wildlife coming out of hibernation.
How to Watch the Lunar Eclipse in Canada
The total lunar eclipse will be visible across Ontario and most of Canada, weather permitting. No special equipment is needed to observe the event, but a clear, dark-sky location away from city lights will provide the best view.
For those in Toronto, Ottawa, and other major cities, the eclipse will be visible in the early morning hours of March 14, peaking at 2:55 a.m. ET.
Key Dates to Remember
- Ides of March: March 15, 2025, a date tied to ancient Roman history.
- St. Patrick’s Day: March 17, 2025.
- Spring Equinox: March 20, 2025, at 5:01 a.m. ET, marking the official start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
This will be the first total lunar eclipse since 2022, making it a highly anticipated event for astronomy lovers across Canada.
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More…
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/rare-blood-moon-eclipse-in-march-2025
- https://www.goerie.com/story/news/2025/03/13/what-time-is-the-lunar-eclipse-tonight-blood-moon-total-lunar-eclipse-2025-solar-eclipse-timeline/82361464007
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/supermoon-setting-up-ramadan
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