On March 14, 2025, a rare total lunar eclipse, or Chandra Grahan, will coincide with India’s Holi celebrations. The total phase will begin at 11:57 AM, peak at 12:29 PM, and end by 01:01 PM, adding to the festive spirit.
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What Causes a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A lunar eclipse happens when Earth comes between the Moon and the Sun, casting its shadow on the Moon. In a total lunar eclipse, Earth’s umbra completely covers the Moon.
Why Is It Called a Blood Moon?
NASA calls this type of eclipse a “blood moon” because the Moon appears reddish-orange during totality. This happens when sunlight scatters through Earth’s atmosphere, with shorter wavelengths like blue and violet getting filtered out, leaving red and orange. More atmospheric particles, like clouds or dust, make the Moon appear redder.
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Viewing Tips and Global Timing
NASA Chief Scientist Renee Weber advised monitoring the weather, noting that totality will last about an hour, allowing glimpses even if clouds scatter. Totality starts at 2:26 am Friday (EDT) and 11:26 pm Thursday (PDT).
For about an hour before and after totality, a partial eclipse will obscure the moon.