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Tonight’s Long Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse Set to Dazzle Large Swaths of the Eastern Hemisphere

Viewers in India can expect an 82-minute totality late this evening with peak around 11:45 PM IST.

Overview

  • The total phase is widely reported in India from about 11:00 PM to 12:22 AM IST, with the maximum near 11:41–11:48 PM IST, as coverage notes minor discrepancies in exact timings.
  • Visibility favors most of Asia and Western Australia with partial views across parts of Europe and Africa, while the UK sees the Moon rising already eclipsed and most of the Americas sit out this event.
  • The Moon’s red hue arises as Earth’s atmosphere filters sunlight (Rayleigh scattering), and the near‑perigee timing may make it appear slightly larger than usual.
  • The eclipse is safe to watch with the naked eye; binoculars or small telescopes enhance the view, and livestreams from groups such as Time and Date and the Virtual Telescope Project serve regions outside the visibility zone.
  • In India, the event coincides with religious observances including Sutak and the start of Pitru Paksha, prompting some temple schedule changes as scientists stress that eating, drinking, and routine activities remain safe.