This Sunday evening, sky-watchers across the UK are in for a rare celestial treat: a total lunar eclipse, often called a “blood moon.”
As the full Moon passes through Earth’s shadow, it will take on a deep red hue, creating a striking spectacle for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. But will the weather cooperate?
Here’s the forecast and everything you need to know to make the most of this astronomical event.
What is a blood moon and when will it occur?
A blood moon occurs during a total lunar eclipse, when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. The Moon takes on a reddish tint because sunlight is filtered and refracted through Earth’s atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing red wavelengths to reach the Moon.
This Sunday’s eclipse is particularly special for UK observers. The last total lunar eclipse visible from the UK was in 2022, and the next won’t occur until August 2026, making this a rare opportunity. The eclipse will begin while the Moon is still below the horizon in the UK, but as the Moon rises at around 7:30pm, it will already be in total eclipse.
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This means that, weather permitting, observers will be able to witness the second half of the event as the Moon gradually emerges from Earth’s shadow. While those in easternmost Africa, the Middle East, most of Asia, and western Australia will be able to witness the entire event from start to finish, UK observers will catch the latter stages as the Moon rises.
The weather forecast: Where will skies be clearest?
The big question for anyone hoping to see the blood moon is, of course, the weather. According to the latest forecast, Sunday evening will bring fairly cloudy conditions to many areas of the UK. However, there is some good news for those in the east and northeast, where the cloud may be thin enough to allow some hazy sunshine earlier in the day and clearer skies by evening.
Elsewhere, outbreaks of rain are expected to spread into the west and southwest, making erratic progress northeastwards. These showers could be heavy in places and especially persistent on south and southeast-facing hills.
Some eastern and northeastern parts of the country could remain largely dry until later in the day, increasing the chances of a clear view of the eclipse. Winds are expected to increase, becoming moderate to strong for most areas.
The clearest skies for viewing the blood moon are most likely across the southwest and parts of Eastern England. However, as with all weather forecasts, especially several days in advance, this is subject to change. It’s advisable to check the latest forecast closer to the weekend for the most up-to-date information.
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How to view the blood moon
To maximise your chances of seeing the eclipse, plan to be in position ahead of 7:30pm with as clear a view of the eastern horizon as possible. In urban areas, this might mean heading to a hill or a popular viewpoint. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience, but the eclipse is easily visible to the naked eye. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view directly, as the Moon’s reflected light is not bright enough to cause eye damage.
Cloud cover will be the main obstacle, so flexibility and a bit of luck will be key. If you’re clouded out, remember that the next opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse from the UK will be on 28 August 2026.
Stay tuned to the forecast
While the prospect of cloud and rain may dampen spirits in some parts of the UK, there is still a good chance that many will catch at least a glimpse of Sunday’s blood moon. The best prospects are in the east and southwest, but as always with British weather, conditions can change rapidly. Keep an eye on the latest updates from the Met Office and be ready to head out if the skies clear.
Keep up to date with weather warnings, and you can find the latest forecast on our website, on YouTube, by following us on X and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store.