In the year 2025, anticipate two instances of "Blood Moons" and two solar eclipses. Gain insights here.
Did you witness the complete sun blockage by the sun over North America in April 2024? No single celestial spectacle in 2026 will come close to its grandeur. Yet, there'll be plenty of thrill for stargazers, with two full moon disappearances due to Earth's shadow, commonly known as "Red Moons," and two captivating partial sun blockages, visible at sunrise. Here's your comprehensive guide to lunar and solar eclipses in 2026:
1. The First "Red Moon" Disappearance Since 2023
When: March 13–14, 2026 (map)
In mid-March, North and South America will have a prime viewing spot for a unique total lunar eclipse — the first since November 2023 — in the early morning hours in North America. For an astounding 65 minutes, the full moon will plunge into Earth's inner shadow — its umbra — and transform into a peculiar reddish hue. During totality, the moon's crimson glow will overshadow the sky, making it an unforgettable sight if the skies cooperate. Observers across Europe will only catch a glimpse of the eclipse during moonset.
2. A Sunrise Solar Eclipse from North America
When: March 29, 2026 (map)
Later that same month, parts of eastern North America and Europe will witness a partial solar eclipse. In regions such as Maine and Quebec, the sun will rise as a sliver, with two distinctive "horns" apparent on the horizon — an awe-inspiring sight for early risers. Europe will experience the eclipse mid-morning, with the depth of the event varying by location. Dublin and Edinburgh will observe 41% and 40% of the sun obscured, respectively. Observers must use solar eclipse glasses and solar filters to safely enjoy the event.
3. A "Red Moon" for Asia
When: September 7–8, 2026 (map)
The second total lunar eclipse will offer another chance to observe a "Red Moon." This time, the eclipse will be visible from Europe, Africa, and Asia, with North and South America left out. As the full moon ascends in Europe on the evening of September 7, it will already be in total eclipse.
4. An "Equinox Eclipse" for the Southern Hemisphere
When: September 21, 2026 (map)
The planet will usher in a new season with a second partial solar eclipse observable from the Southern Hemisphere. Occurring the day before the southward equinox, the most stunning views will be in New Zealand, where up to 73% of the sun will be obscured at sunrise. In Antarctica, facilities like McMurdo Station will witness up to 69% of the sun being covered. Observers across the South Pacific islands, including Fiji and Tonga, will also catch partial views of this celestial spectacle.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
- Mark your calendars for another stunning celestial event in 2025, as a total solar eclipse is set to occur. This rare sight will be visible over parts of South America and Antarctica on April 2, 2025, known as the total solar eclipse 2025.
- For those eager to plan their eclipse viewing, eclipse viewing tips are essential. Always ensure to protect your eyes during a solar eclipse, either by looking through specialized solar eclipse glasses or using a solar filter on a telescope.
- The year 2025 is a year full of intriguing astronomy events, as not only is a total solar eclipse scheduled for April, but there will be two "Red Moons" as well. The first lunar eclipse of 2025, a total lunar eclipse, is set to occur on May 5, 2025, and it will be known as the blood moon 2025 due to its reddish appearance.
- Eclipses 2025 will continue to intrigue and captivate astrologists and stargazers alike. With two enthralling astronomical events scheduled for this year, 2025 promises to be a peculiar year for studying and observing the cosmos.
- Despite the 2024 solar eclipse being an unparalleled event, the total solar eclipse 2024 should not be forgotten as it marks the last full sun blockage by the sun over North America before the one in 2025. This solar eclipse occurred on April 8, 2024, and those who witnessed the sunrise solar eclipse were treated to a magnificent spectacle.
