Today, March 13, 2025, a total lunar eclipse can be enjoyed in its final phase as it leaves the shadow of the Earth. This phenomenon can be observed from anywhere in the country. René Ortega from the Institute of Radio Astronomy and Astrophysics of UNAM commented that it is a spectacle worth witnessing, especially during the total stage of the eclipse, known as Blood Moon or Strawberry Moon.
"It is a spectacle worth witnessing. Before midnight is when the total stage of the eclipse will begin, and this moment is known as Blood Moon or also Strawberry Moon. During this phase, sunlight passes through the Earth's atmosphere and separates into colors. It can be seen from anywhere with the naked eye, as the Moon will be very high in the sky during the eclipse," explained René Ortega.
Despite popular beliefs linking lunar eclipses with bad omens, astrophysicist Alfredo Manríquez Rangel highlighted the beauty of this astronomical phenomenon. During this eclipse, the Moon will appear reddish and orange tones, which poses no danger to health or eyesight.
According to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), for several hours the Moon will pass through the Earth's shadow, first darkening and then acquiring colors ranging from reds, oranges, and coppers. This total lunar eclipse will be the only one of its kind to occur in 2025 and can be observed without the need for special equipment.
The total lunar eclipse tonight will begin with the penumbral phase around 10:00 PM in central Mexico; during this stage, the Moon will slightly darken. The spectacle is expected to last until 1:30 AM on March 14 with striking colors in the Moon. Additionally, this astronomical event has no negative effects on plants or animals.
Although a telescope is not necessary to observe the total lunar eclipse, having one may allow for a better visualization of the different phases of the phenomenon. If it's not possible to go out to see it, UNAM will conduct a live broadcast of the eclipse on its YouTube channel of the Institute of Astronomy. The spectacle promises to be impressive, and starting at 11:10 PM, the partial phase will begin, when the total shadow of the Earth will slowly cover the lunar disk.
