Total Lunar Eclipse March 2025
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – Central Wisconsin residents will have a prime opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse on the night of March 13 into the early hours of March 14, 2025. The event, commonly referred to as a “Blood Moon,” occurs when the Earth casts its shadow across the Moon, turning it a deep red hue.
The eclipse will be visible across North America, with Central Wisconsin offering excellent viewing conditions, weather permitting. This will be the only total lunar eclipse visible in the region until 2029, making it a rare celestial event for skywatchers.
What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Moon to pass through Earth’s shadow. Unlike a solar eclipse, which requires protective eyewear, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. The deep red color seen during totality is caused by Rayleigh scattering, the same atmospheric effect that creates vibrant sunrises and sunsets.
Timing of the Eclipse in Central Wisconsin
The eclipse will unfold over several hours, with the most dramatic phase—totality—lasting just over an hour. Here are the key times for Central Wisconsin:
- Penumbral eclipse begins: 10:57 PM (March 13) – The Moon begins to dim slightly.
- Partial eclipse begins: 12:09 AM (March 14) – A noticeable dark shadow appears on the Moon’s surface.
- Total eclipse begins: 1:26 AM – The Moon turns a coppery red as it enters full eclipse.
- Maximum eclipse: 2:00 AM – The Moon reaches its deepest red hue.
- Total eclipse ends: 2:31 AM – The Moon begins to brighten as it exits Earth’s shadow.
- Partial eclipse ends: 3:47 AM – The dark shadow fades.
- Penumbral eclipse ends: 5:00 AM – The Moon fully returns to normal brightness.
- The best viewing window is from 1:26 AM to 2:31 AM when the Moon will be in total eclipse.
Where to Watch in Central Wisconsin
For optimal viewing, skywatchers should seek out locations with minimal light pollution. Some of the best viewing areas in Central Wisconsin include:
- Powers Bluff County Park (Wood County) – Elevated vantage points and dark skies.
- Mead Wildlife Area (Milladore) – Open spaces free from urban light pollution.
- Rib Mountain State Park (Wausau) – High-altitude location for a clear view of the horizon.
- Lake Wazee (Jackson County) – One of the darkest areas in the region for stargazing.
If conditions are clear, the eclipse will be visible from anywhere in Central Wisconsin, including backyards or open fields away from bright city lights.
Why Does the Moon Turn Red?
The reddish hue of the Moon during totality is the result of Earth’s atmosphere filtering sunlight. As light from the Sun passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths (blue light) scatter, while longer wavelengths (red and orange light) bend around Earth and illuminate the Moon. This effect gives the Moon its distinctive blood-red appearance.
Additional Celestial Highlights
While observing the eclipse, viewers may also spot several bright planets and constellations in the night sky:
- Jupiter and Mars will be visible in the western sky.
- The constellation Leo will be positioned near the Moon at the start of the eclipse.
- The constellation Virgo will appear as the Moon shifts through the sky.
- If skies are dark enough, the Milky Way may be faintly visible.
No special equipment is needed, but binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view.
The March 2025 total lunar eclipse will be the last of its kind visible in Wisconsin until 2029, making this a special opportunity for stargazers. Whether observing from a backyard or a designated dark-sky area, residents of Central Wisconsin are encouraged to take advantage of this rare astronomical event.
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Author: News Desk
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