Total lunar eclipse of September 7, 2025: a rare spectacle visible in Switzerland

A "Blood Moon" expected Sunday night

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, astronomy enthusiasts will be able to admire a spectacular celestial phenomenon: a total lunar eclipse. From moonrise, our satellite will take on a reddish-orange hue above the horizon, a phenomenon often called a "Blood Moon.".

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This eclipse will be primarily visible in Asia, East Africa, and Western Australia. In Europe, including Switzerland, the spectacle will be visible briefly at moonrise in the early evening.

Time and duration of the eclipse in French-speaking Switzerland

According to the Institute of Celestial Mechanics and Ephemeris Calculation (Paris Observatory), the eclipse will be visible at its maximum in Switzerland and France at 20:11.

Total phase duration: 1h22min08s. Complete duration of the phenomenon (entry into twilight until exit): 5h26min43s, until 22h55.

Why does the Moon turn red during an eclipse?

When the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, the Moon is plunged into its shadow and loses its usual white brilliance. The light that still reaches the lunar surface is filtered and scattered by our atmosphere. Since blue wavelengths are dispersed more widely, red wavelengths dominate, giving the Moon its characteristic coppery hue.

As astrophysicist Ryan Milligan (Belfast University) points out, "the Moon is not directly illuminated by the Sun, but by its rays refracted in the Earth's atmosphere, which explains this blood-red color.".

Eclipse viewing: no special glasses required

Unlike solar eclipses, there is no danger in observing a lunar eclipse with the naked eye. No protective equipment is required, other than clear weather and a clear sky. A pair of binoculars or a small telescope can, however, enhance the experience.

An eagerly awaited astronomical event

This eclipse on September 7, 2025 will be the second of the year, after the one on March 14. Astronomy enthusiasts can already look forward to it: in 2026, two total lunar eclipses are predicted, on March 3 and August 28.

And soon… a total solar eclipse in 2026

The following year, on August 12, 2026, another major astronomical event will take place: a total solar eclipse, the first visible in Europe since 2006. It will be fully observable in the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain.

FAQ – Total Lunar Eclipse in Switzerland

When will the next total lunar eclipse take place in Switzerland?

The next total lunar eclipse will be visible on September 7, 2025, with a maximum expected at 8:11 p.m. in French-speaking Switzerland.

What is the duration of the eclipse of September 7, 2025?

The total phase will last 1h22min08s, while the whole phenomenon, from entry to exit from the penumbra, will extend over 5h26min43s.

Why do we talk about a "Blood Moon"?

The term "Blood Moon" is used because during a total eclipse, the Moon takes on a reddish-orange hue. This phenomenon is due to the scattering of sunlight by the Earth's atmosphere, which primarily allows red wavelengths to pass through.

Is it dangerous to watch a lunar eclipse?

No, unlike solar eclipses, a lunar eclipse can be observed with the naked eye without protection. There is no risk to the eyes.

Where will the September 2025 eclipse be most visible?

Viewing conditions will be ideal in Asia (China, India), East Africa, and Western Australia. In Switzerland, the spectacle will be visible at moonrise, weather permitting.

Will there be other eclipses after 2025?

Yes, two total lunar eclipses are predicted for 2026: on March 3rd and August 28th. In addition, a major total solar eclipse will take place on August 12th, 2026, the first visible in Europe since 2006.