Lunar Eclipse

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Moon and the Sun, causing the earth's shadow to fall on the moon. This natural phenomenon can only happen during a full moon and, depending on the type of eclipse can cause the moon to dim or redden.

Unlike a solar eclipse, which requires protective eyewear to view safely, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to watch with the naked eye. People worldwide can observe it, but visibility depends on location and weather conditions.

What Causes a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse happens when the earth blocks sunlight from reaching the moon. This occurs only during a full moon when:

• The sun, earth, and moon align in a straight line.
• The earth’s shadow is cast on the moon.
• The moon passes through the umbra (total or partial eclipse) or the penumbra (penumbral eclipse).

How Often Do Lunar Eclipses Occur?

Lunar eclipses are more common than solar eclipses, occurring at least twice a year somewhere on the Earth. However, a total lunar eclipse visible in one location happens only about every 2.5 years.

The next big lunar eclipse for Icelanders is on March 14, 2025, so don’t miss it!

When is the Next Lunar Eclipse?

In Iceland, people will have a chance to witness the next lunar eclipse on March 14, 2025. This total eclipse will be visible in Reykjavík and across the country, depending on clear skies.

The next lunar eclipses will occur:

• March 14, 2025 - visible in parts of the Pacific, Americas, Western Europe and Western Africa 
• September 7, 2025 - visible in parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. 
• March 3, 2026 - visible in parts of East Asia, Australia, Pacific and Americas 
• August 28, 2026 - visible in parts of the East Pacific, Americaas, Europe and Africa.

While the next lunar eclipse is on March 14, 2025, skywatchers can also look forward to the Solar Eclipse 2025, which will be visible in certain regions.

Want a great view?

Perlan in Reykjavík is one of the best places in Iceland to experience astronomical events. It is situated on a high hill in Reykjavík (öskjuhlíð). So even we are not open at 4 in the morning, the view from the top is spectacular.

The Moon is close to the horizon, so make sure you have free sight to West.

The eclipsed moon combined with dimming near horizon might make the Moon very hard or impossible to see.

Solar vs. Lunar Eclipse

Lunar and solar eclipses are both celestial events, but they happen in different ways:

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth’s shadow falls on the moon. It’s safe to view with the naked eye. Meanwhile, a solar eclipse happens when the moon blocks the sun. You need special eclipse glasses to watch it safely.

Types of Lunar Eclipses

Lunar eclipses are classified into three types based on how much of the moon enters the Earth’s shadow:

Total Lunar Eclipse

The entire moon passes through the earth’s umbra (the darkest part of the shadow).

The moon appears red or copper-coloured—this is often called a Blood Moon.

Partial Lunar Eclipse

Only part of the moon moves into the umbra, creating a partial dark shadow.

A section of the moon appears darker while the rest remains bright.

Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

The moon moves into the penumbra (the earth’s lighter outer shadow). The moon may appear slightly dimmed but does not turn red.

Iceland has excellent conditions for viewing lunar eclipses, especially away from city lights where the sky is darker.

Just as there are three types of lunar eclipses, there are different types of solar eclipses, including total, partial, and annular eclipses.

Don’t Miss the Next Lunar Eclipse in Iceland!

A lunar eclipse is a breathtaking natural event, and Iceland offers some of the best viewing conditions. Mark your calendar for March 14, 2025, and experience the magic of the moon turning red!

Other dates to know about:

• March 29, 2025 - A Partial Solar Eclipse in Iceland
• August 12, 2026 - A Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland

Here’s how to prepare for solar eclipse so you don’t miss this celestial wonder.

FAQ

What does a lunar eclipse look like?

During a total lunar eclipse, the moon turns red or copper-coloured due to sunlight scattering in the earth’s atmosphere. Partial eclipses cause a dark shadow on the part of the moon, while penumbral eclipses make it look slightly dimmer.

How can I view a lunar eclipse?

You can simply step outside and look up! Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye. A telescope or binoculars can enhance the view.

Can I look at the eclipse through my camera?

Lunar eclipses are safe to photograph. Be sure to use a tripod and adjust your camera settings for night photography.

Is Iceland a good place to view the lunar eclipse in March this year?

Iceland is a good location to view the lunar eclipse, but visibility depends on cloud cover. 

Do you need special glasses to see a lunar eclipse?

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye and special glasses are not needed.

What time will the March 14, 2025 eclipse be visible in Iceland?

From Reykjavík, the event starts at 5:09 and ends at 7:31.