Total Lunar Eclipse of March 14, 2025

A Celestial Spectacle Not to Be Missed!

On March 14, 2025, the sky will offer us a fascinating astronomical spectacle: a total lunar eclipse. This event will be the only total lunar eclipse of the year, and although its visibility will be optimal from the Americas, observers in metropolitan France will also be able to enjoy it partially. Here is everything you need to know to not miss a thing of this celestial phenomenon.

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface. There are three types of lunar eclipses:

• Total Eclipse: The Moon passes entirely into the Earth's shadow. During this phase, the Moon can take on a reddish hue, often called a "blood moon," due to the scattering of sunlight by the Earth's atmosphere.
• Partial Eclipse: Only part of the Moon enters the Earth's shadow. This phase can give the impression that the Moon is "bitten" by the Earth's shadow.
• Penumbral Eclipse: The Moon passes through the Earth's penumbra, making the eclipse less visible. The penumbra is the outer zone of the Earth's shadow where sunlight is partially obscured.

Timetable and Visibility

The eclipse of March 14, 2025, will begin at 4:57 a.m. (Paris time) with the penumbral phase. The partial phase will start at 6:09 a.m., and the total phase will begin at 7:26 a.m. However, from metropolitan France, the Moon will set before the end of the total phase, making complete observation impossible.

• Start of the penumbral eclipse: 4:57 a.m.
• Start of the partial eclipse: 6:09 a.m.
• Start of the total eclipse: 7:26 a.m.
• Moonset: 7:08 a.m. (varies by location)

How to Observe the Eclipse?

To observe this eclipse, it is crucial to have a perfectly clear western horizon. The Moon will be very low on the horizon, which can make observation difficult. Here are some tips to optimize your experience:

1. Choose a good location: Find a place with a clear view to the west. The further west or south you are in France, the better. Observers in Brittany or the southwest will have a better chance of seeing the eclipse longer.
2. Use suitable instruments: A digital camera with a 100 mm to 200 mm focal length on a tripod can be sufficient to capture images. For better quality, a small refractor or telescope on an equatorial mount is recommended. The equatorial mount allows you to track the Moon's movement and compensate for the Earth's rotation, providing sharper images.
3. Prepare your equipment: Ensure your camera or telescope is well-calibrated and that you have enough storage space for photos or videos. If you are using a telescope, consider aligning it before the eclipse begins to avoid last-minute adjustments.

The Eclipse of Selene

An interesting challenge for astrophotographers will be to observe the eclipse of Selene, where the Moon and the Sun can be seen simultaneously at sunrise. This phenomenon is made possible by atmospheric refraction, which slightly elevates the celestial bodies above the horizon. Atmospheric refraction is an optical phenomenon where light is deflected as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere, making celestial objects appear higher than they actually are.

To capture this unique moment, it is essential to have a clear eastern horizon as well. You can use two cameras or a video camera to film the sunrise while observing the Moon with a telescope or refractor. This challenge requires good coordination and meticulous preparation, but the result is worth it.

Safety and Precautions

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe for the eyes. You can observe them with the naked eye or with optical instruments without risk. However, if you plan to observe the sunrise at the same time, make sure never to look directly at the Sun without adequate protection. Use solar filters specially designed for observing the Sun to protect your eyes and equipment.

The Saros Cycle

The eclipse of March 14, 2025, is part of the Saros cycle, a cycle of eclipses that repeats approximately every 18 years, 11 days, and 8 hours. This cycle allows for the prediction of future eclipses with great precision. Each eclipse in the Saros cycle occurs at regular intervals and follows a predictable pattern, although observation conditions may vary depending on geographic location.

Tips for Astrophotographers

For astrophotography enthusiasts, this eclipse offers a unique opportunity to capture spectacular images. Here are some tips for successful shots:

1. Use a stable tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential to avoid motion blur, especially when using long focal lengths.
2. Set your camera correctly: Use a lens with a large aperture (f/2.8 or larger) to capture more light. Set your camera to manual mode and adjust the ISO and shutter speed according to the lighting conditions.
3. Take series of photos: Use an intervalometer to take series of photos at regular intervals. You can then stack these images to improve quality and reduce noise.
4. Experiment with settings: Don't hesitate to experiment with different settings to achieve the perfect exposure. The eclipsed Moon can vary in brightness, especially during the total phase.

Conclusion

The total lunar eclipse of March 14, 2025, promises to be a captivating astronomical event. Although visibility will be partial from metropolitan France, astronomy enthusiasts will have the opportunity to capture spectacular images and take on the challenge of the eclipse of Selene. Prepare your equipment, find a good location, and enjoy the show!

For more information and additional tips, feel free to check out our other articles and videos on the subject. Happy observing!