On the night of 7–8 September 2025, skywatchers across India will be treated to a total lunar eclipse, also known as the Blood Moon. This mesmerizing event, where the Moon passes through Earth’s shadow and takes on a striking red-orange hue, will last approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes, with 82 minutes of totality. This rare spectacle will be visible to the naked eye, offering a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts.
Lunar Eclipse Timings in India
- Eclipse begins: 9:58 PM IST, 7 September
- Totality starts: 11:00 PM IST
- Maximum eclipse: 11:42 PM IST
- Totality ends: 12:22 AM IST, 8 September
- Eclipse ends: 1:26 AM IST, 8 September
How to Photograph the Blood Moon (Chandra Grahan)
Capturing the Blood Moon with your phone or camera requires a little preparation. Here are some tips to help you get the best shots:
- Use a Tripod or Stable Surface: Stability is key to preventing blur, especially when taking long-exposure shots. A tripod or any stable surface will help keep your camera steady.
- Manual Camera Settings (for Cameras): If you’re using a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, set the ISO to a low value (e.g., 100) to minimize noise. Adjust the shutter speed to avoid overexposure but keep it long enough to capture enough light. Aim for about 1/100 to 1/200 seconds depending on the brightness.
- Night Mode or Long Exposure (for Mobile Phones): Many smartphones offer a night mode or long exposure feature, which will help capture clear, sharp photos in low light. Enable this mode and keep your phone as still as possible.
- Focus on the Moon: Lock focus on the moon. Most mobile cameras will allow you to tap the screen to focus, so make sure it’s focused sharply on the lunar surface.
- Burst Mode: Using burst mode (taking multiple shots in quick succession) increases your chances of getting the perfect shot, especially when the eclipse progresses through its phases.
- Use Zoom Lenses or Clip-Ons: If you want a closer view, consider using zoom lenses or clip-on telephoto attachments to capture more details of the Moon.
- Avoid Camera Shake: Use a remote shutter release or the timer on your phone or camera to prevent any shake when pressing the shutter button.
No Special Gear Needed
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses can be viewed directly without any special glasses or filters. Binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience, but they are not necessary for a great view.
Where to See the Chandra Grahan in India
The Blood Moon will be visible across most parts of India, including:
- North India: Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow
- West India: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune
- South India: Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi
- East India: Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati
- Central India: Bhopal, Nagpur, Raipur
Enjoy this celestial event and capture the beauty of the Blood Moon with these simple tips to create lasting memories of this spectacular phenomenon.
Image Source: AFP | Image Credit: Respective Owner
