NASA explains the science behind the blood moon’s red glow

When our planet is shadowed in the shadow, the NASA blood moon transforms into a deep glowing red glow - an appearance that has created curiosity, myths and legends throughout the history of the world.

Blood moon explained NASA the reddish hue appears due to the fact that sunlight passes through the Earth's atmosphere prior to getting to the Moon. The atmosphere scatters shorter blue wavelengths, whereas longer red wavelengths pass through, revealing the lunar eclipse red color hues.

While ancient cultures generally believed that a moon with blood was an indication of foreboding or mystery but modern science has proven that it's a simple result of a celestial alignment as well as atmospheric physical physics.

What blood moon reason red to occur?

A blood moon happens when the Moon is completely absorbed into the umbra of Earth--the darkest area of its shadow--during a complete lunar eclipse. In contrast to partial eclipses where only a portion of the Moon is shadowed, a total eclipse covers the entire lunar surface, resulting in that deep red color.

The scientific basis for the red glow

The striking color of the astronomy blood moon is the result of sunlight stretching into the hundreds of layers the Earth's atmosphere prior to it gets to the Moon. Smoke from wildfires, dust volcanic particles, even clouds that are heavy can alter its color. The effect of filtering is normal and predictable. It occurs each when it occurs. Sun, Earth, and Moon are in perfect alignment to produce a complete lunar decline.

When will the next blood moon?

Sky lovers won't need to wait long for. This blood moon's next one is scheduled to happen on 7-8 September 2025. It will be visible in large areas across Asia, Australia, Europe and Africa. Many people will get the chance to experience the stunning celestial spectacle firsthand.