Where and when to watch September’s rare Blood Moon in South Africa

On Sunday, 7 September, South Africans will witness one of the decade’s most spectacular celestial events: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon.

The eclipse will be visible across the country, and the best part is that no special equipment is needed to view it. Here’s where, how, and when to catch this breathtaking event…

Blood Moon: The best time to watch

The eclipse will start in the evening when the moon moves into Earth’s shadow. The total eclipse phase, the most dramatic part, will last just over an hour, peaking around 20:11 (with slight variations depending on location). During this time, the moon will glow a deep, burnt red, producing the famous “blood moon” effect.

The eclipse will be visible nationwide, so whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or a small rural town, you’ll get to see the show. To make the most of it:

• Head somewhere dark: City lights can wash out the view. Find an open field, a quiet park, or even your backyard if it has minimal streetlight glare.
• Look to the east: The moon will rise and gradually darken as it moves deeper into Earth’s shadow.
• Check the weather: Clear skies are essential. Cloud cover could block the view entirely.

Unlike solar eclipses, you can safely watch lunar eclipses with the naked eye without needing protective glasses.

For a clearer view, you can use binoculars or a telescope to spot details on the moon’s surface as it changes from bright white to deep red.

This event isn’t just any eclipse; it marks the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022.

Astronomers predict the moon will display one of the deepest, richest shades of red in years. Because vivid “blood moons” are rare, 7 September is a night you’ll want to mark on your calendar.