South Africans are set for a breathtaking celestial show this evening as a rare total lunar eclipse—often called a “blood moon”—graces the night sky.
This will be the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022 and one of the most dramatic of the decade. As Earth’s shadow moves across the moon, it will take on a deep, coppery red hue, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
The event unfolds in stages:
The moon begins slipping into Earth’s outer shadow around 17:28–17:30.
A partial eclipse starts at 18:26.
The full “blood moon” emerges at 19:30, reaching its peak glow between 20:11–20:12.
The show wraps up by 20:52.
No special equipment is required—this eclipse is completely safe to watch with the naked eye. Binoculars or a telescope can bring the details into sharper focus, but the moon’s striking red color will be easily visible without them.
Clear skies will make for the best viewing, so step outside, look up, and take in one of nature’s most extraordinary performances.