Don't Miss Next Week's Blood Moon, the Last Total Lunar Eclipse Until 2025

Nashia Baker
·1 min read
2019 Blood Moon
2019 Blood Moon

Chad Elberson / GETTY IMAGES

In just a few days, fans of all things outer space will see a celestial event that won't return for another three years. According to CBS News, a total lunar eclipse will rise on November 8—the last until March 14, 2025. This eclipse has earned the moniker "blood moon," since it will appear red against the night sky.

This type of eclipse occurs when the sun, Earth, and moon are in alignment, which makes the moon merge with our planet's shadow. As for the exact timing of the event? It will begin at 3:02 a.m. ET and will be in totality (when the moon is in the darkest area of Earth's shadow) from 5:17 a.m. to 6:45 a.m. ET.

Related: 10 Must-Haves for a Night of Stargazing

The blood moon is a rare sight you won't want to miss—the team at NASA says it will be "celestial magic." While you should be able to see the total lunar eclipse with the naked eye, aim to have binoculars or a telescope on hand if you want to see the moon's color more vividly, note scientists.

Those who live in North and Central America, Ecuador, and Colombia will be able to see the blood moon easily. People in the western regions of Venezuela and Peru will also be able to take in the total lunar eclipse, but will have to wait until the moon comes out from behind Earth's shadow.