Pakistanis will have a chance to witness a rare celestial event this weekend, as a total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon, lights up the night sky.
The eclipse is expected to occur between September 7th and 8th, 2025, lasting approximately five hours and 27 minutes, making it one of the most significant astronomical events visible across the country.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the eclipse is projected to start around 8:28 pm and continue until 1:55 am, providing skywatchers with a long opportunity to observe the moon’s reddish glow.
The term “Blood Moon” is popularly used, although it is not a scientific term. The red appearance occurs as sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, scattering blue light and casting red wavelengths onto the moon.
The University of Karachi’s Institute of Space Science and Technology plans to open its observatory for public viewing, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy the event without requiring any special equipment.
NASA confirms that lunar eclipses are safe to observe with the naked eye, although binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience. Viewers are encouraged to watch from rooftops, open fields, or dark areas for the best visibility.
This eclipse is the second lunar eclipse of 2025 visible from Pakistan, following the March eclipse that could not be observed properly due to daylight. A partial solar eclipse will follow on September 21, 2025, but will not be visible locally.