A rare celestial show will light up North American skies this week
Senior Assistant Editor
2 MIN READ
A "Worm Blood Moon" is expected on Friday, March 14, 2025, which will be observed in certain parts of the world.
A "Worm Blood Moon" is expected on Friday, March 14, 2025, which will be observed in certain parts of the world.
AFP File photo
Skywatchers, get set for the next show up on the roof.
One of the most spectacular full moons of the decade is about to put on a cosmic performance.
This March, the full "Worm Moon" will transforms into a mesmerising "Blood Moon" during a total lunar eclipse. For around 65 glorious minutes, the last full moon of winter will glow a deep red, completely engulfed in Earth’s shadow, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
It will reach peak illumination at 2:55 am Eastern Time (ET) on Friday, March 14, 2025.
Also Read: Moon lighting: Partial lunar eclipse to be longest since 1440
This will be the first total lunar eclipse visible from North America in over two years — and the last good one until 2029, according to Nasa.
So, mark your calendars, set your alarms, and let’s dive into everything you need to know to catch this breathtaking lunar event.
What’s a 'Worm Moon', anyway?
March’s full moon, known as the Worm Moon, gets its name from Native American and European folklore. It marks the time when earthworms emerge from thawing soil, signaling the arrival of spring.
In 2025, the Worm Moon reaches peak fullness at 2:56 am EST on Friday, March 14.
This year, it has an extra trick up its sleeve — later that night, Earth’s shadow will completely cover it, turning it into a stunning red "Blood Moon" for just over an hour.
The Moon will be rocking its full glow all the way through Saturday morning.
When and where to see the total lunar eclipse
The main event unfolds overnight on Thursday, March 13, into Friday, March 14, 2025. Here’s when to catch totality in different time zones:
Eastern Standard Time (EST): 2:26 am – 3:31 am (Friday, March 14)
Central Time (CST): 1:26 am – 2:31 am (Friday, March 14)
Mountain Time (MST): 12:26 a.m. – 1:31 am (Friday, March 14)
Pacific Time (PST): 11:26 p.m. (Thursday, March 13) – 12:31 am (Friday, March 14)
Alaska Time (AKST): 10:26 pm – 11:31 pm (Thursday, March 13)
Hawaii Time (HST): 8:26 pm – 9:31 pm (Thursday, March 13)
If you miss totality, don’t worry — the partial eclipse phases start about an hour before and continue afterward as Earth’s shadow moves across and away from the moon.
How to watch the ‘Blood Moon’ like a pro
The best time to watch?
Totality.
That’s when the moon is fully inside Earth’s shadow and takes on a reddish or coppery glow. The exact shade depends on atmospheric conditions—dust, smoke, or volcanic ash can make it appear darker or even more vibrant.
No need for fancy equipment — this event is visible with the naked eye! Unlike solar eclipses, you don’t need protective glasses. You can watch from anywhere with a clear view of the sky.
While city lights won’t block the eclipse, a dark-sky location will enhance the contrast and make the experience even more magical.
Last chance until 2029
Total lunar eclipses don’t come around often. Astronomers say North America won’t see another one this good for four more years. So soak up the cosmic wonder of the Worm Blood Moon — perhaps one of nature’s most spectacular sights.
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