For the first time in the country’s history, Pakistan is set to witness a rare blood moon phenomenon next month, the Meteorological Department confirmed on Thursday.
The event is expected to attract widespread attention from skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts nationwide.
The Meteorological Department said on Thursday that next month will be the first time in Pakistan’s history that people will be able to see a blood moon.
It has been predicted that a total lunar eclipse will occur on the night of September 7th through 8th, 2025.
The event will start at 8:28 PM with the penumbral phase. At 9:27 PM, there will be a partial moon eclipse. At 11:12 PM, the eclipse will be at its strongest. Almost at 12:57 AM, the partial phase will stop.
At 1:55 AM on September 8, 2025, the total lunar eclipse will end.
It will be one of the longest eclipses of the decade, lasting 5 hours and 27 minutes. The moon will turn a deep red colour during the eclipse. A lunar eclipse is a beautiful sight called a “blood moon.”
People in Pakistan, as well as most of Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Pacific, will be able to see this stellar event. But people in the United States won’t be able to see it.
According to astronomers, the eclipse in September 2025 presents a unique opportunity for skywatchers, as it will be visible to approximately 88% of the global population.
The blood-red colour is caused by the Earth blocking direct sunlight when it moves between the sun and the moon. Light that goes through Earth’s atmosphere is scattered, so only red colours can reach the moon’s surface.
The first lunar eclipse of 2025 occurred on March 14, but people in Pakistan were unable to see it because it took place during the day.
What is a Blood Moon?
During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth is directly between the Sun and the Moon. A blood moon occurs. When sunlight passes through the Earth’s atmosphere, it scatters and changes the colour of the Moon from black to red. The phenomenon is called Rayleigh scattering.
Meteorological Department Confirms Visibility
According to officials from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the rare celestial event will be visible across Pakistan, weather conditions permitting. This will be the first time in recorded history that the country can observe a blood moon clearly.
Global Significance of the Event
Blood moons are rare astronomical occurrences and are visible only a few times in a century from specific regions. The fact that Pakistan will experience one for the first time makes it an extraordinary moment for both scientists and the general public.
Preparations for Observation
The PMD and local observatories are planning to arrange public viewing sessions in major cities, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Astronomers are urging citizens to observe the event using their naked eyes or by using telescopes for a clearer view.
Cultural and Historical Perspectives
Across the world, blood moons have been shrouded in myths, superstitions, and diverse cultural interpretations. However, scientists emphasise that the phenomenon is purely astronomical and a spectacular natural display, carrying no negative omens.
What is an eclipse of the moon?
Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon. The Earth casts a shadow on the moon’s surface during a lunar eclipse. Only happen during a full moon; they are exciting to see.
When the moon moves from beneath the sun to above it, the partial eclipse ends.
How should I look at the eclipse?
NASA says that you should never look straight at the sun during an annular eclipse without special eye protection. If you do, you could permanently damage your eyes.
People should always use approved solar viewing glasses (also known as “eclipse glasses”) or a mobile solar viewer to view an annular (or even a partial) solar eclipse.
A Night to Remember
The rare blood moon is anticipated to last for several hours, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for individuals throughout Pakistan. Experts advise enthusiasts to mark their calendars and prepare for an unforgettable night filled with celestial wonders.