Total Lunar Eclipse On September 7: When And Where To Watch It In India

Lunar Eclipse in India: People across the world have a rare spectacle to look forward to on the night of September 7 and 8. A total lunar eclipse, also known as Chandra Grahan or the "Blood Moon," is set to take over the skies. During this extraordinary event, the Earth will align perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that will transform the lunar surface into a stunning red-orange display. Nearly 85% of the world's population will have the chance to witness at least part of the lunar eclipse, weather permitting. The event will be fully visible across much of Asia and Western Australia, while parts of Europe, Africa, eastern Australia, and New Zealand will catch partial views, making it one of the most widely observable eclipses in recent years.

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The totality phase, when the Moon is completely immersed in Earth's shadow, will last 82 minutes, offering a breathtaking spectacle for skywatchers. Unlike a solar eclipse, this lunar eclipse can be safely enjoyed with the naked eye, requiring no special protective gear.

Lunar Eclipse September 2025: When To Watch Blood Moon In India

The total lunar eclipse will be visible across most of India. The schedule in IST is:

• Eclipse begins: 8:58 pm on September 7.
• Totality (Blood Moon phase): 11 pm (September 7) to 12:22 am (September 8).
• Eclipse ends: 2:25 am (September 8).

Timings For Phases Of The Total Lunar Eclipse (IST):

• 8:58 pm (September 7): Penumbral eclipse begins. This marks the moment when the Earth's penumbral shadow starts to touch the Moon's surface.
• 9:57 pm (September 7): Partial eclipse begins. This is when the Moon starts entering the Earth's umbral shadow, gradually turning a reddish hue.
• 11 pm (September 7): Total eclipse begins. The Moon is fully immersed in Earth's umbral shadow, turning completely red and marking the start of the total lunar eclipse.
• 11:41 pm (September 7): Maximum eclipse. This is the moment when the Moon is closest to the centre of Earth's shadow.
• 12:22 am (September 8): Total eclipse ends. The Moon begins to move out of Earth's shadow.
• 1:26 am (September 8): Partial eclipse ends. This marks the end of the partial phase of the eclipse.
• 2:25 am (September 8): Penumbral eclipse ends. The Moon fully exits the Earth's penumbral shadow.

Where To Watch The Lunar Eclipse In India?

The total lunar eclipse of September 7-8, 2025, will be visible from almost every corner of India, as long as the skies remain clear. You don't need to be in a remote or high-altitude spot to witness it. Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad will all have a clear view of the Blood Moon. The highlight of the event, when the Moon takes on a deep red hue, will unfold between 11:00 pm and 12:22 am IST (with only slight differences in timing depending on where you are).

That said, heading to locations with darker skies and cleaner air can make the spectacle far more striking. Such conditions are particularly rewarding for photographers and stargazing enthusiasts, as they bring out the Moon's crimson tones with greater intensity. With less ambient light, cameras capture sharper details and richer colours without the glow being washed out. In these settings, you may also spot surrounding stars, constellations, or even planets alongside the eclipsed Moon. High-altitude or dry-climate regions add to the clarity. Minimal haze and pollution provide a sharper, more dramatic view.

Also Read: How To Nail Smartphone Astrophotography: 8 Tips For Capturing The Night Sky Like a Pro

Top Destinations In India To Watch The Lunar Eclipse Clearly:

Lunar Eclipse 2025 can be viewed clearly from remote places especially. Photo Credit: Pexels

We have listed some of the best places to see the lunar eclipse in India. These places can provide the ideal view of this spectacle because they generally have clear skies and low levels of light pollution. However, note that visibility and clarity may vary depending on local weather conditions at the time of the eclipse.

1. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley in the Himalayas offers uninterrupted views, thanks to its high altitude. This makes it the perfect place to watch the lunar eclipse, if you manage to reach there in time.

2. Sariska, Rajasthan

Stargazers can have a great view of the Blood Moon here due to Sariska's expansive open landscape and clear skies. It is an excellent option for astronomy enthusiasts due to its serene surroundings and minimal urban interference.

3. Nubra Valley, Ladakh

One can get a pristine view of the night sky due to Nubra Valley's elevation. The rocky mountains of Ladakh will make the red-orange glow of the Moon even more remarkable.

4. Matheran, Maharashtra

With no cars or pollution, this hill station would offer an expansive view of the night sky. The rooftops here would be ideal for admiring the eclipse. However, the current rainy climate in the state may play spoilsport. Check the weather forecast before making plans.

5. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The Rann of Kutch's vast salt plains provide clear views and a wide horizon. Its open landscape is ideal for photographing the Moon during an eclipse.

6. Coorg, Karnataka

The hills and lush green surroundings of Coorg make it one of the perfect places to see the red-orange moon. The surroundings improve the experience manifold by letting stargazers completely engross themselves in the eclipse.

7. Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Neil Island offers a stunning seascape and clear skies. For both tourists and stargazers, seeing the eclipse from here would be an event that they will never forget.

Lunar Eclipse In India: What Observers Should Carry To Watch The Blood Moon

To get a closer look at the moon during the lunar eclipse, consider taking binoculars or a telescope. Carry a camera and a tripod so that you can capture the various phases. Remember to take warm clothing and foldable chairs, depending on the destination. To stay hydrated and refreshed throughout your eclipse outing, carry water and food. Use smartphone apps like Stellarium or SkySafari to track the location of the Moon.

This lunar eclipse promises to be an awe-inspiring spectacle. Don't miss it!