How To Experience the Spectacular Total Lunar Eclipse in Montana

Are you ready for one of the most awe-inspiring celestial events of 2025? On the night of Thursday, March 13 through Friday, March 14, 2025, residents of Montana will have a front-row seat to witness a total lunar eclipse, also known as a “blood moon.” But what exactly is a total lunar eclipse and why does the moon turn red?

The Phenomenon of a Total Lunar Eclipse

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves between the sun and the full moon. Earth’s shadow covers the moon, blocking sunlight from reaching it. The moon appears red because it is illuminated by sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere. This phase is called totality.

While a total solar eclipse only lasts a few minutes and can only be seen from certain places, a total lunar eclipse can be seen from any location on the night side of Earth. During the upcoming event, the total eclipse phase will last 65 minutes because the moon is farther from Earth, taking longer to pass through Earth’s shadow.

What Is a Blood Moon?

During a total lunar eclipse, the moon goes through several stages over a few hours. It starts with the moon entering Earth’s shadow and getting dimmer. Then, as it moves further into the shadow, it turns partially red. Once fully in the shadow, the moon looks completely red, known as the "blood moon." As the eclipse continues, the moon gradually returns to its original appearance.

When to See the Total Lunar Eclipse in Montana

On March 13-14, you'll get the chance to see a stunning event - the Moon turning red during a total lunar eclipse. The eclipse will start at 11:25 p.m. MDT on March 13, 2025, and the total eclipse phase will end at 12:25 a.m. MDT on March 14, 2025. This event will last almost three and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this fascinating sight.

The Science Behind the ‘Blood Moon’

The crimson hue of the moon during a total lunar eclipse is a result of Earth's atmosphere. As sunlight traverses the atmosphere, shorter wavelengths scatter, leaving behind longer wavelengths such as red and orange. This process, known as Rayleigh scattering, filters out cooler colors, casting warm hues onto the moon's surface. During totality, the moon is illuminated by the essence of numerous sunsets.

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Mark Your Calendar for the Next Total Lunar Eclipse

This year features two total lunar eclipses, with the next one occurring on September 7-8. However, North America will not witness this event from its night side. Consequently, the total lunar eclipse on March 13-14, 2025, marks North America's first experience since 2022 and the most remarkable until 2029. Get ready to marvel at the enchanting sight of the "blood moon" gracing the night sky of Montana.