Rare 'Blood Moon' Visible Across Australia This Week

This week, millions of Australians will have the chance to see something truly special – a blood moon! It's the first one in almost three years, and it’ll be lighting up the night sky on Friday, March 14. But you'll have to be quick, because the effect won't last long. Here's everything you need to know about this rare astronomical event:

What is a Blood Moon?

It might sound spooky, but a blood moon is just a total lunar eclipse. This happens when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, blocking sunlight from hitting the moon's surface. But here's the cool part: some light still gets through the Earth's atmosphere, and it appears orange or red. This is because only the longer wavelengths of light can make it through without scattering, giving the moon that eerie, red glow.

Even though the term "blood moon" isn't officially recognized in science, it’s commonly used to describe those lunar eclipses where the moon is bathed in that haunting red light.

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse happens when the moon moves into the Earth's shadow, causing it to become partially or fully darkened because sunlight can't reach it. There are different types of lunar eclipses:

• Penumbral: A subtle dimming effect.

• Partial: Only part of the moon is dimmed.

• Total: The whole moon becomes dark and may appear red (this is the "blood moon" you're looking for!).

• Central: A rare eclipse where the moon passes through the center of the Earth's shadow.

• Selenelion: A really rare type where both the sun and the eclipsed moon are visible in the sky at the same time.

The best part? Unlike a solar eclipse, you can watch a lunar eclipse with the naked eye, so no special glasses are needed!

How Rare Is a Blood Moon?

Total lunar eclipses are rarer than other types, like penumbral or partial lunar eclipses. The last blood moon was in November 2022 and was visible in Australia. After this one, the next total lunar eclipse will be on September 7 and 8, 2025.

When is the Best Time to See the Blood Moon?

The blood moon will appear on Friday night, lasting anywhere from 55 to 80 minutes, but keep in mind that it might not be visible in full in all parts of Australia because it will start before the moon has risen in some cities.

The best time to view the blood moon will be at moonrise, as the eclipse will likely finish shortly after. Here's when the moon will rise in different capital cities:

• Sydney: 7:13pm

• Melbourne: 7:40pm

• Brisbane: 6:04pm

• Canberra: 7:22pm

• Adelaide: 7:35pm

• Darwin: 7:02pm

• Hobart: 7:32pm

If you're in Perth, though, you might miss out since the moon will rise at 6:37pm local time.

Where's the Best Place to See It?

To get the best view of the blood moon, head to a high vantage point with a clear view of the eastern horizon and as little artificial light as possible. Ideally, find somewhere dark with no visual obstructions, but you should still be able to catch a good glimpse of the blood moon from most major cities.

It’s going to be an amazing sight – don't miss out!