If you’re an early riser—or just fancy a bit of celestial magic before your morning cuppa—this Monday is shaping up to be a real treat.

Australians from coast to coast are in for a rare spectacle will be lighting up the sky, and you won’t need a telescope or fancy equipment to enjoy the show.

In fact, this is one of those moments where all you need is a clear view of the sky, a bit of patience, and perhaps a warm jacket!


Let’s start with the basics. A ‘Blood Moon’ is the dramatic nickname for a total lunar eclipse, when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon.

This blocks the sunlight that normally reflects off the moon’s surface. But instead of going completely dark, the moon takes on a deep, rusty red hue.

Why? Because the only sunlight reaching the moon has to pass through Earth’s atmosphere, which scatters the blue light and lets the red tones through—think of it as a sunset, but on a lunar scale!


Dr Laura Driessen, an astronomer from Sydney University, explains: ‘When the moon is fully inside the earth’s atmosphere, only really the red light manages to hit it, and that’s why it looks red.’ It’s a beautiful, eerie sight that’s captivated humans for centuries.

While lunar eclipses happen somewhere on Earth every year or two, this particular event is a big deal for Aussies.

It’s the last time the entire country will get a front-row seat to a total lunar eclipse until the very end of 2028!


There’s another one in March, but after that, you’ll have to wait several years for the next show.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to tick ‘see a Blood Moon’ off your bucket list, now’s your chance.

As Dr Driessen puts it: ‘This is actually the last chance for everyone in Australia to see it for a few years.

If you wanna see a lunar eclipse, it’s definitely gonna be the best one for everyone in Australia until the end of 2028.’

The Blood Moon will be visible across the entire country—provided the weather plays nice and the clouds stay away. Here’s when you should set your alarm:

• Eastern States (NSW, VIC, QLD, TAS, ACT): The eclipse will peak between 3:30 am and 6:00 am on Monday. You’ll catch the best view in the early hours, but keep in mind the moon will set, and the sun will rise before the eclipse ends.
• Central States (SA, NT): You’ll get a head start, with the partial eclipse beginning about 30 minutes earlier than the east.
• Western States (WA): Lucky you! The show starts a full two hours earlier, so you can enjoy the spectacle without having to stay up quite so late (or get up quite so early).

Sydney University’s Professor Tim Bedding adds: ‘They will still have a good view, provided it is not cloudy.’

You don’t need to trek out to the bush, but if you can, it’s worth it! The Blood Moon will be visible even in metro areas with some light pollution, but for the most dramatic effect, try to find a spot away from streetlights and city glow.

‘Better yet, get away from the city,’ says Professor Bedding. Even your backyard or a local park can do the trick—just make sure you have a clear view of the western sky.

Bring a comfy chair, a thermos of tea or coffee, and maybe a blanket. If you’re a keen photographer, this is a great opportunity to snap some stunning shots—just remember to use a tripod for those long exposures.

Throughout history, Blood Moons have inspired myths, legends, and a fair bit of superstition.

Some cultures saw them as omens, while others celebrated them as signs of change or renewal. These days, we know it’s all down to the dance of the sun, Earth, and moon—but that doesn’t make it any less magical.
Have you seen one before? Maybe you have a favourite spot for stargazing, or a tip for taking great moon photos. Share your stories, photos, and tips in the comments below.

Read more: Skywatchers prepare for rare cosmic event lighting up night sky—don't miss out