India is witnessing a spectacular total lunar eclipse tonight, as the Moon turns a dramatic shade of blood red during one of the year’s most anticipated celestial events.

This rare transformation, known as the Blood Moon, happens when the Earth’s shadow falls perfectly on the lunar surface, causing it to glow in deep red and copper hues.

The phenomenon is best explained by the science of light scattering: while shorter blue wavelengths are filtered out by Earth’s atmosphere, the longer red wavelengths curve around and paint the Moon in its fiery colour.

WATCH BLOOD MOON TOTAL LUNAR ECLIPSE LIVE IN INDIA

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is bringing this event directly to viewers across the nation through live streams from some of the country’s top observatories.

The spectacle is being broadcast from the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle, the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, and the Vainu Bappu Observatory. This allows millions who may be contending with cloudy skies or city lights to experience the eclipse’s full grandeur in real-time and high clarity, guided by expert commentary and close-up visuals of the changing Moon.

The eclipse began with the penumbral phase at 8:58 PM, the partial eclipse from 9:57 PM, and reached its spectacular peak with totality at 11:42 PM IST.

The Blood Moon phase is set for an hour, making it ideal for both casual stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to watch, photograph, or simply marvel at nature’s celestial painting.

Whether viewed from backyards, rooftops, or online, tonight’s lunar eclipse is an unforgettable event that connects people across India to the wonders of our universe, and IIA’s live feeds are ensuring nobody has to miss this rare display.

Unlike solar eclipses, this lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to enjoy with the naked eye. No special equipment is needed, although binoculars and telescopes can enhance the view for enthusiasts eager to explore the subtle textures and colours of the eclipsed Moon.

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