A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that fully engulfs the lunar surface. This alignment causes the Moon to take on a reddish-orange glow due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere—a phenomenon similar to how sunrises and sunsets appear in warm tones. The totality phase of this upcoming eclipse will last for an hour, from 2:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. in New Hampshire, making it a late-night but rewarding experience. The entire event spans about six hours, starting just before midnight on March 13 and concluding at 6:00 a.m. on March 14.

Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective eyewear, a total lunar eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye. Simply stepping outside offers a clear view, though the experience can be enhanced with binoculars or telescopes, revealing the intricate cratered surface of the Moon alongside the dim stars usually obscured by the Moon’s brightness. This rare opportunity allows stargazers to witness the Moon in a completely different light, as its usual brilliance is muted under Earth’s shadow.

March skies in the northeastern United States can be unpredictable, with cloud cover potentially obstructing the view. Keeping an eye on weather forecasts through astronomy-specific services, such as the Astrospheric app, can help locate clear-sky areas. Even slight variations in location can dramatically improve visibility, so having a plan to drive to a clearer spot might be worthwhile.

For those interested in photographing the event, modern smartphones with night mode features can capture surprisingly detailed images. Using a tripod or stable surface will prevent motion blur. Professional photographers with DSLRs or mirrorless cameras can experiment with different exposure times, ISO settings, and focal lengths to capture the eclipse’s progression. A telephoto lens (200mm or longer) will help frame the Moon in greater detail, while a star tracker can maintain its position within the frame, allowing for longer exposures that reveal more surface texture. Additionally, image-stacking techniques can enhance sharpness and reduce noise, creating a high-quality final image.

One fascinating aspect of lunar eclipses is the potential for unexpected events, such as meteorite impacts on the Moon. During the 2019 eclipse, a bright meteor impact was recorded, highlighting the possibility of capturing rare celestial occurrences. Shooting real-time video throughout totality maximizes the chance of documenting such fleeting events, which could otherwise go unnoticed in single-exposure photography.

Lunar eclipses have long fascinated humanity and played a role in scientific discovery. Ancient civilizations often interpreted them as omens or divine messages, with myths varying from culture to culture. The Inca civilization believed that a lunar eclipse signified a jaguar attacking the Moon, while some Chinese traditions involved making loud noises to ward off whatever was thought to be devouring it. In contrast, modern astronomy uses these events to study Earth’s atmosphere, measuring its composition by observing how sunlight bends and filters through the air before reaching the Moon’s surface.

Beyond folklore, lunar eclipses have contributed to climate studies. Scientists analyze the color and brightness of the Moon during an eclipse to assess the presence of aerosols and volcanic ash in Earth’s atmosphere. Large volcanic eruptions, such as Mount Pinatubo in 1991, can dramatically darken eclipses due to high levels of ash, offering insight into how such events impact global temperatures and weather patterns.

For those planning to watch the eclipse with family and friends, setting up a comfortable viewing area with reclining chairs, warm blankets, and hot drinks can make the experience even more enjoyable. Lunar eclipses provide an excellent opportunity to spark curiosity in children and newcomers to astronomy. Simple explanations about how the eclipse works and why the Moon changes color can make the event more engaging and educational. Hosting a small gathering with telescopes, projectors, or even time-lapse photography can make the night even more memorable.

If capturing the eclipse, sharing images on personal websites, astrophotography forums, or social media platforms helps contribute to the broader astronomical community. Many organizations, such as NASA and timeanddate.com, encourage public submissions of eclipse photographs to document and compare atmospheric variations.

Additionally, many observatories and planetariums organize public viewing events for lunar eclipses, offering guided telescope observations and expert insights into the phenomenon. Checking with local astronomy clubs can provide access to high-powered telescopes and a community of enthusiasts who can offer advice on observing and photographing the eclipse.

The 2025 total lunar eclipse also provides an excellent opportunity to experiment with different photography techniques, such as HDR imaging to balance the brightness levels between the Moon and its surroundings, or time-lapse sequences to capture the gradual transformation of the eclipse from start to finish. Creative compositions incorporating foreground elements, such as landscapes or buildings, can add depth and storytelling to the images.

With the next total lunar eclipse in the eastern United States not occurring until 2029, this is a rare and worthwhile event. Setting an alarm, stepping outside, and witnessing the Moon’s transformation is a simple yet profound way to connect with the cosmos. Whether viewed with the naked eye, through a telescope, or captured on camera, this celestial phenomenon promises to be a memorable experience.