The upcoming total eclipse of the full Worm Moon on March 13–14, 2025, presents a remarkable opportunity for Denver skywatchers to observe this celestial event. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering the timing, phases, scientific background, and observing tips.
What Causes Lunar Eclipses and What’s a Blood Moon?
A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth aligns directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting Earth’s shadow onto the Moon’s surface. This alignment can produce three types of eclipses:
- Penumbral Eclipse: The Moon passes through Earth’s penumbral shadow, causing a subtle shading.
- Partial Eclipse: A portion of the Moon enters Earth’s umbra, leading to a noticeable darkening.
- Total Eclipse: The entire Moon is engulfed in Earth’s umbra, often resulting in a reddish hue due to Rayleigh scattering—the same phenomenon that colors sunsets.
During a total eclipse, the Moon appears red because Earth’s atmosphere filters and bends sunlight, allowing only the longer-wavelength red light to reach the lunar surface. This is often referred to as the “Blood Moon” effect. The exact shade of red can vary depending on atmospheric conditions, such as volcanic activity or dust levels.
When is the Lunar Eclipse?Â
In Denver, the total lunar eclipse will occur on the night of March 13 into the early hours of March 14, 2025. The detailed schedule is as follows:
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 9:59 PM MDT, March 13
- Partial Eclipse Begins: 11:11 PM MDT
- Total Eclipse Begins: 12:27 AM MDT, March 14
- Maximum Eclipse: 12:59 AM MDT
- Total Eclipse Ends: 1:31 AM MDT
- Partial Eclipse Ends: 2:47 AM MDT
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 3:59 AM MDT
The total phase, where the Moon is entirely within Earth’s umbra, will last approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes. Lunar eclipses occur roughly 1 to 3 times per year, but total eclipses are less frequent. The last total lunar eclipse visible in Denver was on May 15–16, 2022.
How and Where to Observe the Eclipse
No special equipment is required to view a lunar eclipse. Unlike a solar eclipse, it’s safe to observe with the naked eye; but ocular aids can enhance your.
- Naked Eye: Just look up. The moon is quite close and bright to the earth; however, views can be enhanced by finding a dark location with a clear view of the sky, away from city lights.
- Binoculars: These can provide a closer look at the Moon’s surface features during the eclipse.
- Telescope: A telescope will offer detailed views of the lunar terrain and the progression of Earth’s shadow.
The total eclipse will be visible throughout all of earth’s western hemisphere. In Denver, consider visiting local parks or dark sky sites to minimize light pollution.
Photography Tips
Capturing the eclipse can be rewarding. Here are some tips:
- Equipment: Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (200mm or longer) for detailed shots.
- Stability: Mount your camera on a sturdy tripod to prevent blurring.
- Settings: Start with a low ISO (100–400), a moderate aperture (f/8–f/11), and adjust the shutter speed based on the Moon’s brightness.
- Focus: Manually focus on the Moon to ensure sharpness.
- Timing: Capture different phases to showcase the eclipse’s progression.
For more information and updates on the upcoming eclipse, NASA’s What You Need To Know About the March 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse.
Clear skies and happy stargazing moon-gazing!
