By Staff Reporters
Billions worldwide witnessed a rare Blood Moon during total lunar eclipse yesterday , September 7. The Moon turned a deep crimson as Earth’s shadow passed over it, visible across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and much of the Arab world. Skywatchers enjoyed this once-in-several-years spectacle. Here’s how one of the most spectacular celestial events of the decade unfolded.
Highlights
Tonight’s total lunar eclipse offered skygazers across the UAE breathtaking views of the Blood Moon, from the first shadow to totality and beyond. The partial eclipse concluded at 11:56 pm, with more than half of the Moon gradually emerging from Earth’s shadow. The penumbral phase is scheduled to end at 12:55 am on Monday, September 8.
Melissa Cunliffe, a South African hotel general manager in Dubai, called the Blood Moon “like a little chocolate chip in the sky.” Attending her first Dubai Astronomy Group event, she said she watched the Moon change from white to deep brown and, through telescopes, vibrant red.
“I’ve been following DAG for a while, so I was thrilled to join. Experts explained the astronomical and historical aspects, making it even more fascinating. It’s powerful seeing the Moon, Sun, and Earth align like this. The eclipse was amazing.”
The total phase of the lunar eclipse has concluded, and the Moon is gradually emerging from Earth’s shadow. Sky-gazers continue to enjoy the remaining partial eclipse as the Moon slowly returns to its usual silvery glow.
Virasath Khan, a regional sales manager from Dubai, attended the Dubai Astronomy Group event to witness the total lunar eclipse and the Blood Moon.
“There were multiple telescopes giving us clear views and experts explaining everything. I am just a stargazer, and this was my first experience. I enjoyed every moment. The views I saw and the pictures I took were truly astonishing. Seeing it through the equipment gives a completely different feeling. I will be attending more such events from now on. It’s magnetic once you dive into the details of stargazing,” said the Indian expat, who has lived in Dubai for eight years.
The lunar eclipse has reached its peak, with the Moon fully immersed in Earth’s shadow. The Blood Moon glows in different hues of red and copper, giving sky-gazers a spectacular view. Such a sight in the UAE will not be visible again until the next total lunar eclipse on December 31, 2028.
