The eclipse, which began at 1730 GMT and lasted until 1852 GMT, offered a thrilling sight as the Moon transformed into a deep, eerie red hue. This phenomenon occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, casting the Earth's shadow on the lunar surface.
What Causes the "Blood Moon" Effect?
According to astrophysicist Ryan Milligan from Queen's University Belfast, the Moon appears red due to the scattering of sunlight through the Earth's atmosphere. "Blue wavelengths of light are shorter than red ones, so they're more easily dispersed, giving the Moon its red, bloody color," Milligan explained.
Best Views in Asia and Europe
Stargazers in Asia, including India and China, had the best views of the total eclipse. The phenomenon was also visible on the eastern edge of Africa and in western Australia. Meanwhile, Europeans caught a glimpse of a partial eclipse as the Moon rose during the early evening.
Upcoming Celestial Events
Mark your calendars for August 12, 2026, when a rare total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe. The next total lunar eclipse occurred in March this year, and the previous one took place in 2022.
With clear weather and a prime location, stargazers enjoyed a breathtaking view of the "Blood Moon" eclipse. If you missed this spectacle, don't worry – there are plenty more celestial events to look forward to in the coming years!