Witness a Rare Blood Moon Eclipse!

Blood Moon Over Dubai: Rare, 5-Hour Lunar Eclipse to Occur on September 7

On September 7, 2025, the skies of the United Arab Emirates will host a spectacular and rare celestial event: a total lunar eclipse. The total phase will last 82 minutes, and the entire phenomenon will be observable for over 5 hours. The event's uniqueness is not only due to its length but also because nearly 87% of the planet's population will be able to witness the spectacle.

Why is the September eclipse special?

Lunar eclipses occur multiple times a year, but most are partial or penumbral. Total lunar eclipses are rarer, especially when they are as long and widely visible as this one. This event holds global significance, as it will be fully observable in much of Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, and the Middle East.

According to the Dubai Astronomy Group, this will be one of the most photogenic lunar eclipses of the decade. The totality lasts for 82 minutes, during which the Moon takes on a reddish hue—hence the event's popular name: Blood Moon.

When can it be seen in the UAE?

The total lunar eclipse begins in the evening hours on Sunday, September 7, and extends into the early morning hours of Monday. The exact timing is as follows:

19:28 – Start of penumbral eclipse

20:27 – Start of partial lunar eclipse

21:30 – Start of total eclipse

22:12 – Maximum eclipse

22:53 – End of total eclipse

23:56 – End of partial phase

00:55 – End of penumbral eclipse

This means that enthusiasts can follow the celestial event's different phases for approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes.

Why does the Moon turn red?

The Blood Moon occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. During the total eclipse, the Moon enters Earth's central shadow zone, known as the umbra, where all direct sunlight is blocked.

While no direct sunlight reaches it, light filtered through Earth's atmosphere hits the Moon's surface. Shorter-wavelength, blue light is scattered in the atmosphere, while longer-wavelength, reddish light reaches the Moon—giving it the orange-red hue we see.

How can it be observed?

Observing the lunar eclipse is completely safe and requires no special eye protection—unlike a solar eclipse. For those wanting a closer look at the Moon's surface and phases, a telescope or binoculars can enhance the experience.

Astrophotography enthusiasts should consider using a tripod and longer exposure settings. Stunning images can also be captured with a smartphone when aligned with a telescope eyepiece.

It is crucial to choose a viewing location away from city lights. Artificial lighting can interfere with the enjoyment of the red hue's contrast and detail. Additionally, check the weather conditions to ensure clouds do not obstruct the view.

Iconic view with Burj Khalifa in the background?

The Dubai Astronomy Group is organizing a public observing event where attendees can experience the spectacular celestial event together. Detailed location and registration information will soon be available on the organization's official website.

For those unable to attend in person, the DAG offers a global live stream broadcasted by the Abu Dhabi-based Al Sadeem Observatory and international partners. A highlight of the stream will be an iconic capture featuring the Blood Moon alongside the Burj Khalifa, produced with the assistance of a renowned astrophotographer.

Phases of the Lunar Eclipse

The lunar eclipse is not a single moment but a series of gradual transitions:

Penumbral Phase: The Moon first enters the Earth's lighter shadow zone. Only slight darkening is visible during this phase, which is often hard to notice with the naked eye.

Partial Phase: Part of the Moon enters the darker, central shadow (umbra). Here, it becomes clear that a portion of the Moon's surface is "missing."

Total Eclipse: The Moon is entirely situated within the umbra. This phase is most striking, as the Moon takes on a reddish-orange hue. The exact color depends on the Earth's current dust and pollution levels in the atmosphere.

Exit Phases: The Moon gradually leaves the umbra and then the penumbra, returning to its normal brightness.

When will a similar event occur again?

The next lunar eclipse visible from the UAE will occur on July 6, 2028, though it will only be partial. However, in three years, a special event awaits: on December 31, 2028, at midnight, a total lunar eclipse will crown the year's last night—a fitting way to welcome a new year.

Summary

The lunar eclipse on September 7 is not only a rarity from an astronomical perspective but also a visually stunning experience. For residents of Dubai and the UAE, it offers a great opportunity to connect with the universe, whether through a telescope, at a public event, or via an online stream. So prepare ahead: set a reminder, find the best viewing spot, and don't miss this spectacular Blood Moon!

(Source: Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) announcement.)