Skywatchers in Pakistan are in for a rare celestial treat, as the country will witness a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a “Blood Moon”, on the night of September 7 and early hours of September 8, 2025.

This will be the only total lunar eclipse visible from Pakistan this year.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), four eclipses would occur worldwide in 2025, including two solar and two lunar.

While a total lunar eclipse in March and two solar eclipses in March and September will be visible in various parts of the world, Pakistan will only be able to witness the September 7-8 event.

The eclipse will unfold in several phases across the country:

• At 8:30pm (Sept 7): The moon will first enter Earth’s penumbra (lighter shadow), causing only a subtle dimming that may not be noticeable to the naked eye.

• At 9:27pm: The partial eclipse will begin as Earth’s darker shadow starts to cover the moon.

• At 10:31pm: The total lunar eclipse will commence, with the moon fully engulfed in Earth’s umbra. It will glow with a reddish-orange tint, creating the striking “Blood Moon” effect.

• At 11:12pm: The eclipse will reach its peak, when the moon appears in its deepest red. This stage will last until 11:57pm.

• At 12:57am (Sept 8): The partial phase will end as the moon gradually moves out of Earth’s shadow.

• 1:55am: The penumbral stage will conclude, marking the end of the eclipse.

Experts explain that the reddish hue appears because Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light, allowing only the longer red wavelengths to filter through and reach the moon’s surface.

The PMD has urged the public to make the most of this rare phenomenon.

Astronomers describe the event as not only a scientific wonder but also a memorable visual spectacle for the public across Pakistan.

The residents could also witness these rare spectacles in parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe.