September’s Blood Moon: when and how to see it in the Canary Islands
On Sunday, 7th September 2025, the night sky will deliver one of the year’s most spectacular astronomical events: a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a “Blood Moon”. Millions of people across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania will be able to see the Moon turn a deep red for over an hour, caused by the way Earth’s atmosphere bends sunlight and filters out blue tones, leaving only red light to reach the lunar surface.
From the Canary Islands, the event will be visible in a very particular way. The eclipse will already be in progress before moonrise, which means islanders will see the Moon appear on the horizon already tinted red, a dramatic sight for anyone looking east at around 7:30 pm local time.
What is a Blood Moon?
A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. Instead of disappearing completely, the Moon glows with a coppery red colour. This phenomenon is what gives rise to the name “Blood Moon”.
Timetable for the Canary Islands
The total eclipse will take place between 3:28 pm and 8:55 pm UTC, reaching maximum coverage around 6:12 pm UTC. However, because of the time difference and moonrise, the Canaries will not see the eclipse until the Moon rises above the horizon.
- Around 7:30 pm local time: The Moon rises already in full eclipse, glowing red.
- Up to about 10:00 pm local time: The later partial phases can be followed as the Moon slowly returns to its usual appearance.
Although the peak of the eclipse will not be visible, the sight of a red Moon rising over the horizon is expected to be particularly memorable.
Where else can it be seen?
- Europe & Spain: Most regions will see the eclipse from start to finish, though in the west (including the Canaries), the Moon rises already eclipsed.
- Africa, Asia & Oceania: Full visibility of the entire eclipse.
- America: Not visible, as it will still be daytime there.
Astronomers estimate that more than 5.8 billion people worldwide will be able to witness at least part of this eclipse.
Safe to watch
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. No protective glasses are required. Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view, revealing the surface features and subtle shades of colour. For photography, a tripod and long exposure can help capture the deep red tones at their most striking.
A unique event in 2025
This is the second and final total lunar eclipse of 2025, and also the longest, with 82 minutes of totality. The event will also coincide with the Moon being near perigee (its closest point to Earth), making it appear larger than usual.
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