• A total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon, captivated skywatchers across the United States.
• The eclipse, the first since 2022, showcased the Moon’s transformation into a reddish hue as it passed through Earth's shadow.
• This celestial event lasted over six hours, with totality occurring around 2:26 AM EDT.
• Stargazers were encouraged to find dark locations away from city lights for optimal viewing.

On the night of March 13, 2023, a spectacular total lunar eclipse, famously referred to as a Blood Moon, illuminated the night sky over the United States, thrilling stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. This event marked the first total lunar eclipse in over two years, with the full phenomenon visible across North America as well as parts of the Pacific and some regions in the UK. As reported by India Times, the eclipse began at approximately 11:57 PM EDT, formally kicking off a sequence of celestial phases which included the penumbral, partial, and finally the total eclipse where the Moon took on a stunning copper red color. During the total phase, which began around 2:26 AM EDT, the Moon was fully engulfed in Earth's umbral shadow, transforming into a striking reddish orb due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth's atmosphere. This phenomenon, akin to sunset colors, is what resulted in the eerie beauty of the Blood Moon. As highlighted by BBC, while the UK experienced only a partial eclipse, those in the Americas enjoyed a magnificent view of the totality. Participants were advised by NASA and various local stargazing communities on how best to observe this lunar marvel. According to India Times, binoculars or telescopes were recommended for an enhanced viewing experience, although the eclipse could be seen with the naked eye. The mesmerizing total lunar eclipse attracted considerable attention, with many observing the event either live or via online livestreams hosted by planetariums and observatories. Notably, The New York Times reported that various stargazing groups across the globe organized watch parties to partake in this ancient celestial event, connecting thousands of people through their shared fascination with the night sky. With lunar eclipses occurring several times a year, skywatchers can anticipate another total lunar eclipse in September, which will be predominantly visible in Asia and parts of Europe and Africa.