On the night of September 7, 2025, Nigeria and several African countries will be treated to a breathtaking astronomical event: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon. This rare celestial phenomenon, where the Moon takes on a striking reddish hue, will captivate skywatchers across the continent. Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective eyewear, a lunar eclipse is safe to observe with the naked eye, making it an accessible and awe-inspiring experience for all.
This eclipse is part of an "almost tetrad," a series of four lunar eclipses occurring within a short period, with others taking place on March 14, 2025, and later in 2026. The September 7-8 event is particularly significant as it will be visible across most of Africa, offering millions a chance to witness the Moon fully immersed in Earth's shadow. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this extraordinary event.
What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon moves entirely into the Earth's umbral shadow, the darkest part of the shadow, causing it to appear red or coppery. This reddish hue, often called a Blood Moon, results from Earth's atmosphere scattering shorter blue wavelengths of sunlight and allowing longer red and orange wavelengths to reach the Moon.
The "Blood Moon" Phenomenon: Why Does the Moon Turn Red?
This is the most magical part. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon doesn't simply disappear. Instead, it transforms into a hauntingly beautiful shade of red, orange, or copper, hence the name "Blood Moon."
This happens because of Earth’s atmosphere. While the Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon, our atmosphere bends (refracts) the sunlight. It acts like a prism, scattering the shorter blue wavelengths and allowing the longer red and orange wavelengths to pass through and illuminate the Moon.
It’s essentially a projection of every sunrise and sunset on Earth onto the Moon’s surface. The exact color can vary from a bright copper to a dark, rusty red, depending on the amount of dust and clouds in Earth's atmosphere at the time.
The September 2025 eclipse will occur just 2.6 days before the Moon reaches perigee, its closest point to Earth, on September 10, 2025, at 8:10 UTC. This proximity will make the Moon appear larger in the sky, enhancing the visual impact of the eclipse. The total phase of the eclipse will last approximately 83 minutes, with the entire event, including partial and penumbral phases, spanning about 5 hours and 27 minutes.
Visibility in Nigeria and Africa
The total lunar eclipse on September 7-8, 2025, will be visible across most of Africa, including Nigeria, as well as Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe. In Nigeria, the event will begin around 8:00 PM West Africa Time (WAT) on Sunday, September 7, and continue into the early hours of September 8. The eclipse will be particularly striking in eastern Africa, where it will be visible from start to finish, but Nigeria and other West African nations will also enjoy a spectacular view as the Moon rises in the east during the event.
Key visibility details for Nigeria and other African countries:
Nigeria (Lagos): The eclipse begins at 8:28 PM WAT (penumbral phase), with the partial phase starting at 9:26 PM WAT. Totality runs from 10:30 PM WAT to 11:53 PM WAT, with maximum eclipse at 11:11 PM WAT. The event concludes at 1:55 AM WAT on September 8.
South Africa (Cape Town): Totality is visible from 7:30 PM to 8:52 PM SAST, with the Moon low on the horizon during the partial phases.
East Africa (Nairobi, Kenya): The entire eclipse, including totality, is fully visible, offering prime viewing conditions.
Central and West Africa: Central and West Africa: Countries like Ghana, Senegal, and Cameroon will see the eclipse as the Moon rises, with the best views during totality.
The eclipse will be visible to approximately 85% of the world’s population, including much of Africa, making it a shared celestial experience for billions. However, cloud cover could obstruct views in some areas, so checking local weather forecasts is essential.
Key Timings for the Eclipse
Here are the global UTC timings for the September 7-8, 2025, lunar eclipse, adjusted for Nigeria’s WAT (UTC+1):
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 3:28 PM UTC (8:28 PM WAT), September 7
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 4:26 PM UTC (9:26 PM WAT), September 7
- Total Eclipse Begins: 5:30 PM UTC (10:30 PM WAT), September 7
- Maximum Eclipse: 6:11 PM UTC (11:11 PM WAT), September 7
- Total Eclipse Ends: 6:53 PM UTC (11:53 PM WAT), September 7
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 8:55 PM UTC (1:55 AM WAT), September 8
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends:8:55 PM UTC (1:55 AM WAT), September 8
The total phase, when the Moon is fully within Earth’s umbral shadow, will last about 83 minutes, offering ample time to observe the Blood Moon’s dramatic crimson glow.
How to Watch the Lunar Eclipse in Nigeria
Observing a lunar eclipse is simple and requires no special equipment, making it a perfect activity for families, friends, and astronomy enthusiasts. Here are some tips to ensure an unforgettable experience:
- Find a Clear Viewing Spot: Choose a location with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon, as the Moon will rise during the eclipse. Avoid areas with tall buildings or trees. Rural areas with less light pollution, such as locations outside Lagos or Abuja, are ideal.
- Check the Weather: Cloud cover can obscure the eclipse, so monitor local forecasts. Coastal areas like Lagos may experience variable weather, while inland regions could offer clearer skies.
- Use Binoculars or a Telescope (Optional): While the eclipse is visible to the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience by providing a closer view of the Moon’s surface and the Earth’s shadow.
- Photography Tips: For DSLR users, use a tripod and a telephoto lens (200mm or longer) to capture the Moon’s red hue. Set a low ISO (100-400) and experiment with exposure times to avoid overexposure.
Scientifically, lunar eclipses offer insights into Earth’s atmosphere. The Moon’s redness during totality depends on atmospheric conditions, such as dust or volcanic ash, which can alter the hue. This eclipse’s proximity to perigee will make it appear larger, adding to its visual impact.
Why This Eclipse is Special
- Blood Moon Effect: The Moon’s deep red or coppery appearance during totality is a rare and striking phenomenon, not visible again in Nigeria until 2026.
- Widespread Visibility: With 77% of the world’s population able to see at least part of the eclipse, it’s a global event that unites skywatchers across continents.
- Part of an Almost Tetrad: This eclipse is the second in a series of four, making it part of a rare astronomical sequence.
The total lunar eclipse on September 7-8, 2025, promises to be a mesmerizing event for Nigeria and much of Africa. With its vivid Blood Moon and widespread visibility, this eclipse is a must see for anyone with an interest in the night sky. Mark your calendars, find a clear spot, and prepare to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays. Whether you’re in Lagos, Nairobi, or Cape Town, this celestial spectacle will leave you in awe.