The BRICS TimesA lunar eclipse occurs when Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. Unlike a solar eclipse, a total lunar eclipse can be observed without any special equipment. In India, several myths and superstitions are also linked with lunar eclipses.
From the serene landscapes of Ladakh to the coastal stretches of Tamil Nadu, countless eyes turned skyward on Sunday night to witness the rare celestial spectacle of a total lunar eclipse. At exactly 9:57 p.m., the Earth’s shadow began to glide over the lunar surface, gradually engulfing it in darkness. In several regions of the country, monsoon clouds partially spoiled the view, as the Moon played hide-and-seek behind the dense sky cover. But by 11:01 p.m., the Moon was completely cloaked in Earth’s shadow, transforming into a deep coppery-red orb, creating the enchanting sight of a “Blood Moon.”
According to Neeruj Mohan Ramanujam, Head of the Science, Communication, Outreach and Public Engagement (SCOPE) division at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, the total phase of the eclipse lasted for 82 minutes, beginning at 11:01 p.m. and ending at 12:23 a.m. He further explained that the overall eclipse spanned a duration of 3 hours and 28 minutes. With this event, the last total lunar eclipse of the year has now concluded. The next major celestial occurrence will be the final solar eclipse of 2025, expected on September 21, which coincides with the new moon.
Explaining why the Moon turns red during such events, former Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, B.S. Shailja, said, “The Moon appears red during a lunar eclipse because the sunlight that reaches it passes through the Earth’s atmosphere, where it gets refracted and scattered.” To ensure wider public access, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics directed its telescopes in Bengaluru, Ladakh, and Tamil Nadu towards the Moon and live-streamed the entire phenomenon across social media platforms.
Unfortunately, in many regions of India, thick monsoon clouds disrupted the clarity of the view. Yet, the global astronomy community came to the rescue, as live streams organized by enthusiasts around the world allowed people to witness the spectacular eclipse without disappointment. The total lunar eclipse was visible across large parts of Asia, Europe, Africa, and sections of Western Australia.
This particular eclipse turned out to be the longest total lunar eclipse visible from India since 2022. Remarkably, it was also the first eclipse since July 27, 2018, to be observed from all corners of the country. The next chance to view such a grand celestial show in India will be on December 31, 2028. Eclipses do not occur on every full moon or new moon because the Moon’s orbit is tilted around five degrees relative to Earth’s orbit around the Sun, making such alignments relatively rare.
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth positions itself directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing its shadow to fall on the lunar surface. Unlike solar eclipses, total lunar eclipses can be safely enjoyed with the naked eye, without requiring any protective gear. However, in India, these natural events are often surrounded by myths and superstitions. Many people traditionally avoid food, water, or physical activity during the eclipse due to beliefs related to “poison” or “negative energies.” Some even hold the notion that eclipses can be harmful to pregnant women and their unborn children.
Scientists, however, emphasize that lunar eclipses are purely astronomical occurrences, well understood since the time of Aryabhata, the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer. Astronomers repeatedly clarify that such eclipses “pose no threat to humans or animals.” Unfortunately, over the centuries, irrational beliefs have sometimes led to unnecessary fears and unfortunate incidents. Experts underline that greater awareness of scientific facts is essential to overcome these misconceptions. Ramanujam reassured people by stating, “It is absolutely safe to step outside and enjoy a meal while witnessing this magnificent celestial event.”
