A total lunar eclipse, popularly called a “blood moon,” will be visible across large parts of Africa, including Nigeria, on the night of 7–8 September 2025. Skywatchers in many Nigerian cities should be able to see the Moon turn a coppery-red as it passes through Earth’s shadow.
Astronomers say this will be a long total lunar eclipse, with the total phase lasting about 82 minutes, making it one of the longer eclipses of the decade. The whole sequence of penumbral, partial and total phases will run for roughly 5 hours and 27 minutes from start to finish.
In Nigeria, the event will be visible on the evening of 7 September. Local reports indicate that the key phases will take place in the early night hours, with major activity occurring around the 7–8pm window. The exact viewing time will vary slightly depending on location, and in some areas the Moon will already be rising as the eclipse is underway.
During a total lunar eclipse, Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. However, some sunlight is filtered and bent through Earth’s atmosphere, scattering away blue wavelengths and allowing red and orange hues to reach the lunar surface. This is what gives the Moon its striking “blood-red” appearance.
The eclipse will be visible across most of Africa, Europe, Asia and parts of Australia, with about 80–85% of the world’s population able to see at least part of the event. In Nigeria, most regions will experience the total phase, weather permitting. For the best view, observers are advised to find an open area with a clear view of the eastern to south-eastern horizon.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. Binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience by showing finer details on the Moon’s surface, while cameras with longer exposures can capture its red glow.
This eclipse is considered notable because the Moon will pass near the centre of Earth’s shadow while at apogee, its farthest point from Earth. This positioning slows its apparent motion and prolongs the total phase, making tonight’s spectacle one of the most remarkable celestial events in recent years.
Sign up here with your email
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon