On March 14, 2025, the world witnessed one of the most amazing astronomical phenomena, a total lunar eclipse or often referred to as the Blood Moon . This phenomenon not only amazed sky watchers, but also raised curiosity about what actually causes a total lunar eclipse and why the moon appears red. This article will discuss the causes of this phenomenon in a simple and in-depth manner.
What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon in a perfect alignment. In this condition, the Earth's shadow covers the entire surface of the Moon. This phenomenon can only occur during the full moon phase, when the Moon is on the opposite side of the Sun relative to the Earth.
But not every full moon produces a lunar eclipse. This is because the Moon's orbit is tilted about 5 degrees relative to Earth's orbit. Because of this tilt, the Moon usually passes either above or below Earth's shadow. Lunar eclipses only occur when the Moon is near one of the two points where its orbit intersects Earth's orbit, called nodes .
Cause of the Red Color of the Blood Moon
One of the most interesting aspects of a total lunar eclipse is the red color that appears on the Moon, known as a Blood Moon . This red color is caused by a phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering . When sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere, shorter wavelengths of light, such as blue and green, are scattered in all directions. Meanwhile, longer wavelengths, such as red and orange, are transmitted and refracted toward the Moon.
In other words, Earth's atmosphere acts like a lens that focuses red light onto the Moon's surface. This is what gives the Moon its coppery red color during the totality phase of the eclipse.
Stages of Total Lunar Eclipse
A total lunar eclipse consists of several stages, namely:
- Penumbra Phase : The Moon begins to enter the Earth's outer shadow called the penumbra. At this stage, changes in the Moon are difficult to observe with the naked eye.
- Partial Phase : The Moon begins to enter the Earth's core shadow called the umbra. At this stage, the part of the Moon covered by shadow begins to appear dark.
- Totality Phase : The entire surface of the Moon is in the umbra, and this is when the Moon appears red. This phase usually lasts from a few minutes to more than an hour.
- Final Partial and Penumbral Phase : The Moon slowly moves out of the umbra shadow and back into the penumbra before finally appearing as normal.
Blood Moon March 14, 2025
On March 14, 2025, a total lunar eclipse will last for about 65 minutes during its totality phase. This phenomenon can be observed in various parts of the world, including North America, South America, Western Europe, West Africa, and parts of East Asia. In Indonesia, this eclipse can only be seen in the eastern regions, such as Papua and Maluku, during the final phase of totality and penumbra.
This total lunar eclipse is one of four eclipses scheduled to occur in 2025, making it a rare event that is highly anticipated by sky watchers.
Why is this phenomenon important?
A total lunar eclipse is not only visually interesting, but also has scientific and cultural value. In astronomy, this phenomenon provides an opportunity to study the Earth's atmosphere, such as its composition and thickness, through the analysis of refracted light. Culturally, lunar eclipses are often associated with myths and beliefs in various societies, adding to its appeal as a special celestial phenomenon.
Conclusion
A total lunar eclipse or Blood Moon is one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena. By understanding what causes it, we can better appreciate the beauty and complexity of the universe. So, if you have the chance to witness a total lunar eclipse in the future, be sure to enjoy it and experience the wonder of the night sky.
