Prepare for a celestial spectacle: a "blood moon" is on the rise. This weekend, a total lunar eclipse will be visible to approximately 85% of the world’s population, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most striking displays. Unfortunately, viewers in North America will have to wait until March 3, 2026, to witness this phenomenon firsthand.

The eclipse will unfold during the night of September 7–8 and last for 5 hours and 27 minutes. During a total lunar eclipse, the moon often takes on a dramatic crimson hue—earning it the nickname "blood moon"—as it moves into Earth’s shadow.

Who can see the eclipse?

The best views will be available across Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, western North America (including Alaska), eastern South America, and over the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Arctic Oceans, as well as Antarctica.

The moon’s path through Earth’s shadow

The event begins as the moon enters Earth’s penumbra (the outer, lighter part of its shadow) and later the umbra (the dark, central region). Totality—the period when the moon is entirely covered by Earth’s shadow—will last for 83 minutes. The entire process, from penumbral entry to exit, spans nearly 5.5 hours.

What causes a “blood moon”?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth aligns directly between the sun and the moon. Sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere scatters, allowing primarily red and orange wavelengths to reach the moon’s surface. This gives the moon its characteristic reddish glow.

Why is it called the Corn Moon?

This full moon is traditionally known as the Corn Moon, a name derived from Algonquin tribes who marked it as the time for harvesting corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice. In Europe, it’s also referred to as the Fruit Moon or Barley Moon, symbolizing late-summer ripening and harvest.

The moon will reach peak illumination at 2:09 p.m. ET on September 7 but will appear full the nights before and after as well.

When is the next lunar eclipse?

Although North America will miss this event, stargazers won’t have to wait long for another opportunity. Eight of the 13 lunar eclipses expected between 2025 and 2030 will be visible from the United States, with the next total lunar eclipse coming in March 2026.