Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
A Blood Moon occurs during a total lunar eclipse when Earth's shadow turns the moon deep red due to scattered sunlight. This eerie glow is caused by Rayleigh scattering—the same effect that makes sunsets red.
The next total lunar eclipse will take place on March 13-14, 2025. The moon will be fully immersed in Earth’s shadow for 65 minutes, creating a stunning red hue.
The eclipse will be best visible in North and South America. Europe, Africa, and Asia (including India) will miss the full eclipse but may see parts of the penumbral or partial phases.
Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye, telescopes, or binoculars. No special glasses are needed—just clear skies!
Holi, the festival of colors, coincides with the full moon of Phalguna (March 14-15, 2025). While the Blood Moon won’t be visible in India, its timing with Holi sparks mythological and astrological discussions.
In Hindu mythology, eclipses occur when Rahu, a demon, swallows the moon. Some believe that a Blood Moon on Holi signifies a cosmic battle between light and darkness, much like Holi’s theme of good triumphing over evil.
Some astrologers see lunar eclipses as times of high energy, transformation, or caution. Others connect Holi’s bonfires (Holika Dahan) to purging negativity—counteracting any eclipse-related fears.
The moon turns red because Earth’s atmosphere filters out blue light, allowing only red and orange wavelengths to reach the moon. This phenomenon is known as Rayleigh scattering.
This is the first total lunar eclipse since 2022 and lasts over six hours, with the moon being fully red for 65 minutes—a long and spectacular celestial event!