A Blood Moon A blood red Moon.  © NASA

A Blood Moon is coming on September 7, and more than 6.2 billion people will be able to see it.

On the night of September 7–8, Earth’s shadow will cover the Moon, creating a stunning total lunar eclipse that will last about 82 minutes. The event will be visible across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

The moon drifts into the umbraWhen the moon drifts into the umbra, Earth’s inner shadow, a total eclipse occurs.  © NASA

A lunar eclipse happens when the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. Most eclipses are only partial, but in a total eclipse, the Sun, Earth, and Moon line up perfectly. Sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere and turns the Moon a deep, glowing red, which we call a Blood Moon.

Global Blood Moon on September 7Where the eclipse will be visible: The lightest regions have the best view, the darkest regions won’t see it at all.  © NASA

The Moon slowly changes color as it moves into Earth’s shadow, then returns to its usual look once it passes through.