Sri Lankans will have a rare opportunity to witness the phenomenon known as the ‘blood moon’ this week (7).
This was noted by University of Colombo Department of Physics Head, Astronomy and Space Science Unit Director, and Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies Chairperson Prof. Chandana Jayaratne.
The spectacular celestial event is set to light up the skies on 7 September, as the moon undergoes a total lunar eclipse, turning an eerie, deep red for 82 minutes.
Known as a blood moon, this will be the last total lunar eclipse of the year and is expected to be visible to nearly 85% of the global population. Unlike many eclipses confined to specific regions, this phenomenon will be observable across much of Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa, with Sri Lanka offering some of the clearest views.
Accordingly, stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts across Sri Lanka have been advised to prepare for a breathtaking celestial event as a total lunar eclipse graces the night sky on Sunday.
Lunar eclipses happen when the Earth is between the sun and a full moon.
Prof. Jayaratne noted that the celestial phenomenon will see the full moon pass directly behind the Earth and into its shadow, gradually transforming its silvery glow into a striking reddish hue. The entire eclipse, from the initial penumbral phase to the final moments, will be observable across the country if the sky is without clouds.
The key timings for the total lunar eclipse on 7 September for Sri Lanka are as follows: Penumbral eclipse begins: 8.58 p.m.; Partial eclipse begins: 9.57 p.m.; Total eclipse begins: 11.01 p.m.; Maximum eclipse: 11.42 p.m.; Total eclipse ends; 12:22 a.m. (8 September); Partial eclipse ends: 1:26 a.m. (8 September).
The period of totality, when the moon will appear at its reddest, will last for a remarkable 1 hour and 22 minutes. The entire duration of the eclipse, from the start of the penumbral phase to the end, will be 5 hours and 27 minutes, Prof. Jayaratne added.
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------ Post added on Sep 6, 2025 at 2:45 PM
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