Everything to Know About March's 'Worm Moon,' What It Symbolizes

On the night between March 13 and 14, 2025, the sky will gift us with an extraordinary phenomenon: a total lunar eclipse. During this event, the Moon will take on a suggestive reddish hue, giving life to what is called the "Red Moon" or "Blood Worm Moon." It's a rare and fascinating spectacle that will not fail to enchant observers around the world.

The total lunar eclipse will have an umbral magnitude of 1.1804, which means that the Moon will be completely immersed in the Earth's shadow for about 65 minutes. The event will begin at 4:57 UTC, with the Moon entering the Earth's penumbra. The total phase will begin at 7:25 UTC and will reach its maximum brightness at 7:58 UTC, then conclude at 8:32 UTC. The complete exit from the Earth's shadow will occur at 10:00 UTC. This astronomical event will be one of the most interesting eclipses of 2025 and will attract the attention of amateur astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts around the world.

The total lunar eclipse will be best viewed from the Americas, where the phenomenon will take place at night, providing a breathtaking spectacle. In Europe, including Italy, it will be possible to observe only the early phases of the eclipse before the moon sets, while in East Asia and Australia the event will be visible at dawn. The visibility of a lunar eclipse depends on the geographic location and the weather conditions, so it is advisable to monitor the weather forecast to ensure an optimal view of the "Red Moon."

Read on for more details on March's "Worm Moon" and what it symbolizes, in addition to everything to know about lunar eclipses in general.

The "Worm Moon" and Its Symbolism

The March full moon is traditionally known as the "Worm Moon," a name that comes from Native American tribes. This name refers to the return of earthworms to the soil with the arrival of spring, a symbol of rebirth and change. This year, the "Worm Moon" will coincide with the total eclipse, making the event even more special. The combination of the "Red Moon" and the "Worm Moon" represents an evocative moment both from an astronomical and cultural point of view, an unmissable opportunity for skywatchers and photographers.

Myths, Legends and Science

Lunar eclipses have always fascinated civilizations around the world, often charged with mystical and symbolic meanings. In the past, the Red Moon or "Worm Moon" was considered a harbinger of extraordinary events, a sign of change or warning. Today, thanks to science, we can fully understand these phenomena and appreciate their beauty without fear. The progress of astronomy has made it possible to accurately predict every lunar eclipse, transforming them from mysterious events to astronomical spectacles to be admired with awareness and wonder.

What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on our satellite. This only happens when the Moon is full and the three celestial bodies are perfectly aligned. During the eclipse, the Moon first passes through the Earth's penumbra and then enters the darker shadow, called umbra. It is precisely in this phase that the Moon takes on its characteristic red color, due to the scattering of sunlight in the Earth's atmosphere, a phenomenon known as Rayleigh scattering, a phenomenon also responsible for the warm colors of the sunset.

How to Observe a Lunar Eclipse?

To best enjoy a total lunar eclipse, it is advisable to find a place away from light pollution and with a wide view of the horizon. No special instruments are required for observation, although binoculars or a telescope can provide a more detailed perspective of the lunar surface and the shades of color during the various phases of the eclipse. Astrophotography enthusiasts can take the opportunity to immortalize the phenomenon, using long exposures to capture the most evocative details of the "Blood Worm Moon."

The Next Lunar Eclipses

If you miss the eclipse of March 14, 2025, don't worry: The next total lunar eclipse will be visible from Italy on September 7, 2025. Another opportunity to admire our satellite tinged with red and to remind us how extraordinary the cosmos we live in is. Astronomy enthusiasts can mark these dates on their calendars so as not to miss the opportunity to observe one of nature's most fascinating spectacles.