By Krishna Dua 
Live Updates: India Witnesses the Spectacular Chandra Grahan 2025 Blood Moon
As dusk falls across the Indian subcontinent, anticipation is mounting for a celestial spectacle that has captured the imagination of millions. Tonight, the skies above India are set to be the stage for a total lunar eclipse, a dramatic event known as a Chandra Grahan. This particular eclipse is colloquially and famously referred to as a Blood Moon because of the stunning, deep reddish-orange hue the Moon will take on as it passes through the Earth’s shadow. From bustling metropolitan centers to quiet rural landscapes, stargazers, photographers, and curious onlookers are all preparing to witness this rare and beautiful sight. This live blog will provide continuous, real-time updates on the various stages of the eclipse, as well as essential information for observers and enthusiasts alike.
This cosmic ballet is a powerful reminder of our place in the solar system, a moment when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align in a perfect, temporary harmony. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is entirely safe to view with the naked eye. No special equipment is needed, although a pair of binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the viewing experience, allowing you to see the intricate details of the Moon’s surface and the subtle color variations.
Understanding the Phenomenon: Why It’s a Blood Moon
A total lunar eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that completely covers the Moon. The Moon’s orbit is slightly tilted relative to the Earth’s, so these alignments don’t happen every full moon. When they do, the Moon first enters the Earth’s faint outer shadow, known as the penumbra. This is followed by its entry into the darker, central part of the shadow, called the umbra.
So why does the Moon turn red? This is the most fascinating part of the spectacle. When the Moon is fully in the Earth’s umbra, it doesn’t disappear completely. Instead, it takes on its characteristic reddish-orange glow. This is because some sunlight, particularly the longer wavelengths of light (red and orange), is filtered and refracted by the Earth’s atmosphere. This bent light then travels a great distance and finally reaches the lunar surface. The shorter wavelengths (blue and violet) are scattered by the Earth’s atmosphere, which is why our sky appears blue during the day. The color of the Blood Moon can vary depending on the amount of dust, volcanic ash, or clouds in the Earth’s atmosphere at the time of the eclipse. A clearer atmosphere will produce a brighter, more orange moon, while a dust-filled atmosphere will result in a darker, deeper red.
The Stages of the Eclipse: A Timeline for India
To help you follow the event, here is a breakdown of the key stages and their approximate timings for viewers in India.
- Penumbral Eclipse Begins (12:00 AM IST): The Moon enters the Earth’s faint outer shadow. This is the first and most subtle phase. The Moon will begin to look slightly darker, but it is a change that is very difficult to spot without a keen eye. Most observers will not notice any difference at this stage.
- Partial Eclipse Begins (1:15 AM IST): The Moon begins to enter the Earth’s darker, inner shadow (the umbra). This is when the eclipse becomes much more noticeable, as a small, dark “bite” appears on the Moon’s edge. This dark area will steadily grow, marking the start of the main event.
- Total Eclipse (Blood Moon) Begins (2:30 AM IST): The Moon is now completely within the Earth’s umbra. This is the start of the most dramatic phase when the Moon will take on its spectacular reddish-orange color. The full spectacle of the Blood Moon will be visible at this point.
- Maximum Eclipse (3:10 AM IST): This is the peak of the eclipse, when the Moon is closest to the center of the Earth’s shadow. The Moon’s color will be at its deepest and most vibrant. This is the best time for observers and photographers to capture the moment.
- Total Eclipse Ends (3:50 AM IST): The Moon begins to exit the umbra. A small, bright sliver will reappear on one side of the Moon, signaling the end of the “Blood Moon” phase.
- Partial Eclipse Ends (5:05 AM IST): The Moon has fully exited the umbra and is now only in the penumbra. The bright, round Moon will begin to return to its normal state, and the dark “bite” will disappear.
- Penumbral Eclipse Ends (6:20 AM IST): The Moon has fully exited the Earth’s shadow, and the eclipse is officially over.
Live Updates from Across the Country
1:00 AM IST: The penumbral eclipse is well underway. Early reports from astronomers in New Delhi suggest a slight, but discernible, dimming of the Moon’s surface. Observers with telescopes are setting up their equipment, and crowds are gathering in public viewing areas.
1:30 AM IST: The partial eclipse has begun! The first clear signs of the Earth’s shadow are now visible. Observers in Bengaluru are reporting a small, dark curve on the southeastern edge of the Moon. The atmosphere at local planetariums is buzzing with excitement as people witness the start of the celestial show.
2:00 AM IST: The Moon is now about 25% covered by the Earth’s shadow. Images being shared from Mumbai show a distinct, growing dark area on the lunar disk. People are now starting to use their phones and cameras to capture the moment, with many sharing updates on social media.
2:30 AM IST: It’s a total eclipse! The Moon has now completely entered the Earth’s shadow. The stunning reddish glow is now visible. The term “Blood Moon” truly comes to life. Initial images from professional photographers in Kolkata are breathtaking, showing a deep crimson orb in the night sky. The crowd’s reaction is one of pure awe.
2:50 AM IST: We’re midway through totality. The Moon is a vibrant, fiery red. Reports from observers in Chennai and Hyderabad mention a particularly clear view due to minimal cloud cover. The astronomical community is sharing live feeds and detailed observations, discussing the subtle variations in color.
3:10 AM IST: The eclipse is at its maximum. The Moon is at its most vibrant. The deep red color is a result of sunlight filtering through the Earth’s atmosphere and scattering. This particular shade of red is unique to this eclipse, a direct result of our planet’s atmospheric conditions. The view is spectacular.
3:30 AM IST: The total eclipse is ending. The Moon is now starting to emerge from the Earth’s shadow. A sliver of bright moonlight is reappearing on the western edge of the lunar surface. The spectacle is far from over, but the most dramatic phase is now behind us. The crowd cheers as the bright light returns.
4:00 AM IST: The Moon is now about 75% out of the umbra. In Ahmedabad, people are still gathered in large groups, enjoying the final moments of the partial eclipse. The view is transitioning from a deep red to a more subtle, crescent-shaped shadow.
4:30 AM IST: The partial eclipse has now officially ended, and the Moon is returning to its normal, pearly white color. While the main event is over, many are still enjoying the final moments as the Moon passes through the penumbra.
5:00 AM IST: The eclipse is now in its final phase. While the visual impact is diminishing, the sense of a shared experience lingers. Across India, from the northern Himalayas to the southern coast, millions have watched the same celestial show, a beautiful reminder of our connection to the cosmos.
Cultural and Scientific Significance
Historically, lunar eclipses have been viewed with a mix of awe and superstition in many cultures, including in India. In Hindu mythology, the eclipse is often associated with the demons Rahu and Ketu briefly swallowing the Moon. While these beliefs continue to be held by many, a greater understanding of the scientific basis of the phenomenon is also spreading. The event serves as a powerful bridge between tradition and science.
From a scientific perspective, lunar eclipses provide a unique opportunity for astronomers. They allow for the study of the Earth’s atmosphere by analyzing the light that filters through it and reaches the Moon. The varying colors of the Blood Moon can provide clues about atmospheric conditions, including the presence of dust, volcanic aerosols, and clouds. These events are also used to fine-tune astronomical models of the solar system.
Tonight’s celestial event has served as a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of our solar system. It’s a moment that brings people together, inspiring curiosity and wonder about the universe. The clear skies in many parts of India have ensured that millions have been able to witness this beautiful sight, making it a truly memorable night