A total lunar eclipse “blood moon” was visible to many across the globe on Sunday night.
Stargazers got the chance to see the rare spectacle for the first time since 2022, with the moon visible in western Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Stargazers view the moon in Koege, Denmark. Picture: Mads Claus Rasmussen/Ritzau Scanpix via AP
The moon turned a deep, dark red — sometimes called a “blood moon” — as the Earth passed directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface.
The moon is seen behind the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Picture: Fatima Shbair/AP
The slightly reddish hue of the moon during the eclipse means it is often referred to as a “blood moon”.
The eclipse was visible to the naked eye in some parts of the world, and unlike solar eclipses, was safe to view directly as the Moon’s reflected light is not as bright.
The moon as seen in Vienna, Austria. Picture: AP Photo/Denes Erdos
According to Astronomy Ireland, the next total lunar eclipse will not occur until late 2028.
The moon as seen from Liverpool. Picture: PA
Editor David Moore said an almost-total solar eclipse will occur next year on August 12, covering more than 90% of the sun.
The moon turns red during a lunar eclipse in Kolkata, India. Picture: AP Photo/Bikas Das
September will also see the autumnal equinox arrive.
On September 22, day and night will be of equal length for everyone on Earth.