Tonight, on September 7, 2025, skywatchers will experience a remarkable event: the September Full Moon coinciding with a total lunar eclipse. This phenomenon, although not visible in North America, promises to offer a stunning view for those in regions where the eclipse can be observed.
The moon is currently in the Full Moon phase, meaning that it is fully illuminated and visible from Earth. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, observers can expect a bright and clear sky, making it an ideal time for lunar viewing. The full illumination allows viewers to easily identify various features on the moon’s surface, such as the Aristarchus Plateau, Copernicus Crater, and Mare Crisium. For those with binoculars, the Grimaldi Basin and Gassendi Crater are also notable sights. A telescope will provide an even more detailed view of the Fra Mauro Highlands.
The total lunar eclipse occurring tonight adds an extra layer of intrigue, although it will not be visible from the United States. Total lunar eclipses can transform the moon into striking shades of red, offering a breathtaking spectacle for viewers in other parts of the world.
Understanding Moon Phases
Moon phases are determined by the moon’s 29.5-day orbit around Earth, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. This cycle results in various appearances of the moon from our perspective, ranging from a New Moon, which is completely dark, to a Full Moon, when the moon is entirely illuminated.
NASA outlines the eight primary moon phases:
– New Moon: The moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, making it invisible.
– Waxing Crescent: A small sliver of light appears on the right side.
– First Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated on the right, resembling a half-moon.
– Waxing Gibbous: More than half of the moon is lit, but it is not yet full.
– Full Moon: The entire face of the moon is visible and bright.
– Waning Gibbous: The moon begins to decrease in illumination from the right side.
– Last Quarter: Half of the moon is lit on the left side.
– Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before the cycle resets.
For those eager to gaze at the moon, the next Full Moon will occur on October 6, 2025. Each phase not only offers a different visual experience but also invites a deeper appreciation for our celestial neighbor. Whether using the naked eye or specialized equipment, tonight’s full moon and lunar eclipse serve as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the cosmos.
