Red Moon Rising: Catch the Worm Moon Eclipse in North America

Ever wondered what it's like to see a moon turn red? Well, get ready because North America is in for a treat this March. The full moon, known as the Worm Moon, will be totally eclipsed by Earth's shadow, creating a stunning red hue that will last for about an hour. This celestial event is a big deal because it's the first total lunar eclipse in two and a half years and won't be visible again until 2029. The Worm Moon gets its name from early Native American and European folklore. It marks the time when earthworms start to appear as winter ends and spring begins. In 2025, this full moon will reach its peak on March 14th at 2:56 a. m. EST. But the real show starts when Earth's shadow covers the moon, turning it a dramatic red for 65 minutes. So, when exactly can you see this? The total lunar eclipse will happen overnight from Thursday, March 13th, to Friday, March 14th, 2025. The timing varies depending on where you are in North America. For example, if you're on the East Coast, totality happens from 2:26 a. m. to 3:31 a. m. on Friday. If you're on the West Coast, it's from 11:26 p. m. on Thursday to 12:31 a. m. on Friday. Don't forget, the partial phases before and after totality are also worth watching. You don't need any special equipment to see the "blood moon. " It's visible from anywhere, even in cities with lots of light pollution. But if you want to see the stars around the moon, you might want to head to a darker spot. Astrophotographers will likely be out in force, capturing wide-angle shots of the sky and landscapes. Just remember to dress warmly and bring a blanket or hot drink—it can get chilly in March! After the eclipse, the Worm Moon will set in the west during dawn on Friday, March 14th, and rise again in the evening, just after sunset. Moonrise times will vary by location, so check your local listings. The sight of the full moon rising on the eastern horizon will be visible across the world, even if you missed the eclipse. If you're wondering when the next full moon is, mark your calendars for Saturday, April 12th. That's when the Pink Moon, the first full moon of spring, will light up the sky. Before that, on March 29th, there will be a partial solar eclipse visible from northeastern North America and across Europe. This event is a great opportunity to learn about the moon's phases and how eclipses work. It's also a chance to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. So, grab your binoculars or a telescope, find a cozy spot, and enjoy the show!