Witness the Spectacular Lunar Eclipse Tonight

Published by Library Staff on March 13, 2025

Tonight, skywatchers across North America will be treated to a breathtaking celestial event: a total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “Blood Moon” due to the reddish hue the moon takes on during totality. This rare phenomenon occurs when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that transforms the moon’s appearance. Here’s everything you need to know to catch this stunning event, including the exact times for various time zones.

Key Timings for the Lunar Eclipse

The total lunar eclipse will unfold in several stages, each offering a unique view of the moon’s transformation. Here are the key timings for Central Time (CT) and other major time zones:

• Central Time (CT):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 10:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 11:57 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 1:26 AM (March 14)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 2:26 AM (March 14)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 3:31 AM (March 14)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 4:59 AM (March 14)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 5:57 AM (March 14)
• Eastern Time (ET):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 11:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 12:57 AM (March 14)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 2:26 AM (March 14)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 3:26 AM (March 14)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 4:31 AM (March 14)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 5:59 AM (March 14)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 6:57 AM (March 14)
• Mountain Time (MT):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 9:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 10:57 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 12:26 AM (March 14)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 1:26 AM (March 14)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 2:31 AM (March 14)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 3:59 AM (March 14)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 4:57 AM (March 14)
• Pacific Time (PT):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 8:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 9:57 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 11:26 PM (March 13)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 12:26 AM (March 14)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 1:31 AM (March 14)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 2:59 AM (March 14)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 3:57 AM (March 14)
• Alaska Time (AKDT):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 7:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 8:57 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 10:26 PM (March 13)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 11:26 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 12:31 AM (March 14)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 1:59 AM (March 14)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 2:57 AM (March 14)
• Hawaii Time (HST):
  • Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 5:57 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Begins: 6:57 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Begins: 8:26 PM (March 13)
  • Maximum Eclipse: 9:26 PM (March 13)
  • Total Eclipse Ends: 10:31 PM (March 13)
  • Partial Eclipse Ends: 11:59 PM (March 13)
  • Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 12:57 AM (March 14)

Viewing Tips

To make the most of this celestial event, follow these tips:

1. Find a Dark Location: Light pollution can hinder your view, so try to find a spot away from city lights.
2. Use Binoculars or a Telescope: While the eclipse is visible to the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope can enhance your experience.
3. Dress Warmly: Depending on your location, it might be chilly during the eclipse. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
4. Check the Weather: Clear skies are essential for viewing the eclipse. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.