All eyes in Kentucky will turn skyward on the night leading into March 14, 2025, with the anticipation of a spectacular total lunar eclipse. This celestial event treats viewers to a 'Blood Moon,' where the Moon takes on a mesmerizing red color as it passes through the Earth’s shadow.
The event kicks off with the penumbral phase at 11:57 p.m. EDT on March 13. This is where the eclipse commences and the Moon subtly darkens. The more dramatic partial phases, which are easier to notice, begin at 1:47 a.m.. The highlight occurs when the total eclipse starts at 2:26 a.m., reaching its peak or maximum eclipse at 2:59 a.m., and then wraps up at 3:31 a.m.. The penumbral phase concludes shortly after, by 6:00 a.m.
The citizens of cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green will have the privilege of witnessing this grand spectacle. While the forecast suggests predominantly clear to partly cloudy skies, those eager to view the eclipse without hindrance should keep an eye on weather updates as the date approaches. Fortunately, lunar eclipses are safe to watch without any special eye protection, unlike their solar counterparts.
For those absorbing every moment of this eclipse, mark your calendars for another opportunity in March 2026, when Kentucky will again be in the path of a total lunar eclipse. After all, it's not every evening the Moon decides to don its scarlet hues and put on a show for all to see.
This upcoming celestial event is not just a treat for seasoned astronomers or night sky enthusiasts but a delightful spectacle for anyone willing to step out late at night and look up and marvel at the wonders of our universe.