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Total Lunar Eclipse to illuminate sky with ‘Blood Moon’ tonight: Check key timings

Published By : admin | September 7, 2025 11:18 AM
Total Lunar Eclipse to illuminate sky with ‘Blood Moon’ tonight: Check key timings

​​​​​​​Bhubaneswar, Sept 7: Sky-gazers across India are in for a rare celestial treat tonight as a total lunar eclipse, also known as the "Blood Moon" due to its striking reddish hue, will be visible in every corner of the country.

This extraordinary phenomenon, which occurs only after long intervals, is expected to captivate stargazers and astronomers alike.

As per reports, the lunar eclipse will begin with the penumbral contact at 9:57 PM, followed by the start of the total eclipse at 11:01 PM. The eclipse will reach its peak at 11:42 PM, and the total phase will end at 12:23 AM. The Moon will then completely exit Earth's shadow at 1:27 AM, marking the end of this captivating event.

The total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Moon to pass through Earth’s shadow. As sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere and scatters, the Moon takes on a deep red color, giving rise to the iconic "Blood Moon." This phenomenon is not only a visual spectacle but also a rare event, making it a special occasion for sky-watchers.

Astronomers emphasize that such total lunar eclipses are infrequent, making this Sunday night’s eclipse an important event for anyone with an interest in astronomy.

In keeping with age-old practices, the pre-eclipse observance will begin at 12:57 PM, nine hours before the eclipse’s commencement. During this period, traditional customs dictate that cooking, eating, and religious rituals should be avoided. However, exemptions are made for children, the elderly, and the sick.

Devotees are expected to resume their rituals after taking a bath and observing the Brahma Muhurta hours—around 4 AM—following the completion of the eclipse. This auspicious time is considered ideal for prayer and spiritual activities.

In view of the eclipse, special rituals are being carried out at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The temple opened its doors at 2 AM to commence the rituals, which will continue until 12 noon. Following this, as per tradition, cooking will stop, and no further rituals will be performed inside the temple after 12:57 PM.

Once the eclipse concludes, the temple will reopen at 2 AM with the Dwaraphita Niti (opening of the temple doors), followed by the Mangala Alati ritual at 2:40 AM.