Blood Moon Meets Northern Lights Tonight
Tonight's deep partial lunar eclipse creates rare opportunity to see both red moon and northern lights together
The update
Tonight’s deep partial lunar eclipse will be the most impressive until New Year’s Eve 2028, with up to 96.2% of the moon’s surface slipping into Earth’s darkest shadow, creating an eerie red hue. At the same time, moderate geomagnetic storms may produce visible northern lights across several northern U.S. states and parts of Canada.
Why it matters
This celestial double feature offers a rare viewing opportunity for skywatchers across North America. Lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye, unlike solar eclipses, making this accessible to millions. The combination of a blood moon and potential northern lights creates a unique astronomical experience that won’t be repeated for years.
What to watch
Viewers in North and South America have the best chance to see all phases of the eclipse. About 12% of the world’s population—approximately 987 million people—may be able to witness the event. Those in Canada and Alaska have the best opportunity to potentially see both the red moon and northern lights together, though they likely won’t appear in the same part of the sky.
Sources
- space.com — eclipse details and visibility information
- livescience.com — northern lights potential and geomagnetic storm information