Millions of Australians across the country have the chance to witness a rare “blood moon” next week, many from the comfort of their own homes.
The last blood moon occurred in March but was only briefly visible in Australian skies.
Many people didn’t get to witness the mysterious event because it started before the moon appeared in most major cities across the nation. However, there will be another opportunity to catch it soon.
How to see the blood moon in Australia
The ideal moment to observe the September blood moon over Australia is on the morning of Monday, September 8. Keep in mind that the precise timing will differ depending on your time zone.
The totality(when the moon is engulfed in Earth’s shadow and turns red) will begin around the following times in each capital city:
- Sydney – 3.30am
- Melbourne – 3.30am
- Brisbane – 3.30am
- Canberra – 3.30am
- Hobart – 3.30am
- Adelaide – 3.00am
- Darwin – 3.00am
- Perth – 1.30am
The maximum eclipse, when the effect is at its strongest, will occur almost 45 minutes later.
Approximate times in each capital city are as follows:
- Sydney – 4.11am
- Melbourne – 4.11am
- Brisbane – 4.11am
- Canberra – 4.11am
- Hobart – 4.11am
- Adelaide – 3.41am
- Darwin – 3.41am
- Perth – 2.11am
The totality will end about 45 minutes after the maximum eclipse, and the entire thing will be over a few hours later.
The best place to see the blood moon will be from a high vantage point with limited artificial light sources and no visual obstructions.
When is the next blood moon?
After the September blood moon, the next total lunar eclipse won’t occur until 2026.
It will take place overnight on Monday, March 2 and Tuesday, March 3 and should be visible in most parts of Australia.
