On Sunday, 7 September, South Africans will have front-row seats to one of the most striking celestial events of the decade: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon.
The event will be visible across the country, and the good news is you won’t need special equipment to see it.
Here’s where, how and the best time to see this spectacular eclipse…
Blood Moon: The best time to watch
The eclipse will begin in the evening, as the moon starts to slide into Earth’s shadow. The most dramatic part, the total eclipse phase, will last just over an hour, with the peak around 20:11 (exact times may shift slightly depending on where you are). That’s when the moon will glow a deep, burnt red, creating the famous “blood moon” effect.
The eclipse will be visible nationwide, so whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or a small rural town, you’ll get to see the show. To make the most of it:
- Head somewhere dark: City lights can wash out the view. Find an open field, a quiet park, or even your backyard if it has minimal streetlight glare.
- Look to the east: The moon will rise and gradually darken as it moves deeper into Earth’s shadow.
- Check the weather: Clear skies are essential. Cloud cover could block the view entirely.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. You don’t need protective glasses. For a sharper look, use binoculars or a telescope; you’ll be able to see details on the moon’s surface as it shifts from bright white to deep red.
This isn’t just any eclipse. It’s the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022, and astronomers say the moon will take on one of the deepest, richest shades of red seen in years. These vivid “blood moons” are relatively rare, making 7 September a night worth marking on your calendar.
Have you marked your calendar for this special event?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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