March 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting month for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts! As the nights grow longer and the skies clear, fascinating celestial events await us. Get ready for a highlight of the month! The full moon, known as the Worm Moon, will take center stage this March. But that’s not all—an enchanting blood moon lunar eclipse will also grace our skies.
Mars Meets the Moon, 8 March 2025
Before the full moon shines brightly, something spectacular happens on the night of March 8, 2025. The planet Mars will make a close approach to the Moon, making it easier for everyone to spot these two celestial wonders. Observers in the U.S. can look up to see Mars twinkling above and to the left of Orion, both part of the wonderful constellation, Gemini. If you gaze toward the southeast around 7:00 PM UTC, you’ll catch a glimpse of Mars next to the Moon! As the evening continues, these celestial bodies will slowly move across the sky, eventually settling in the southwest.
What’s Special About the Worm Moon?
Now, let’s talk about the Worm Moon itself! This special full moon occurs on March 14 at 2:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time. Native American tribes named it the Worm Moon because, during this time, earthworms start to emerge from the ground as the weather warms up. Isn’t that a fun association? Some other names for this moon include the Crow Moon and the Crust Moon, reflecting its significance across different cultures.
A Mysterious Blood Moon Appears!
Just a day after the Worm Moon rises, a total lunar eclipse will occur! This phenomenon will start on the night of March 13 and last until the early hours of March 14. At 11:57 PM EDT, the moon will begin its journey through the Earth’s shadow, creating a breathtaking blood moon effect. For about 65 minutes, from 2:26 AM until 3:31 AM, observers will witness the Moon turning a spectacular reddish hue. This mesmerizing sight happens because the Earth blocks the sunlight, allowing only the light that has passed through our atmosphere to hit the Moon. It’s safe and truly magical to watch!
Timing is Everything: Lunar Events Schedule
| Event | Date | Time (EST) |
|---|---|---|
| First Quarter Moon | March 6, 2025 | N/A |
| Total Lunar Eclipse Begins | March 13, 2025 | 11:57 PM |
| Total Lunar Eclipse – Totality | March 14, 2025 | 2:26 AM – 3:31 AM |
| Full Worm Moon | March 14, 2025 | 2:55 AM |
| Ides of March | March 15, 2025 | N/A |
| First Day of Spring | March 20, 2025 | N/A |
| Last Quarter Moon | March 22, 2025 | N/A |
| New Moon | March 29, 2025 | N/A |
| Full Pink Moon | April 12, 2025 | 8:22 PM |
How to Enjoy the Show
This amazing celestial performance is a perfect reason for a star-gazing night with family and friends. Grab a blanket, find a cozy spot away from city lights, and look toward the sky! You don’t need any special equipment. Just your eyes will do. And remember to check the timing! Make sure everyone knows when the best moments to look up are, especially for the Eclipse.
Wrapping Up the Month with the Pink Moon
If the Worm Moon and the eclipse weren’t enough to get you excited, there’s already talk about the next full moon—the Pink Moon, which will shine brilliantly on April 12! This month is truly a treat for moon lovers and everyone who enjoys the beauty of the night sky. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and prepare for an exciting march in the cosmos!
