Vietnamese skywatchers are in for a visual treat as a rare blood moon  -  a total lunar eclipse  -  will occur in the early hours of September 8. The phenomenon will produce a striking, deep-red moon visible across much of the world, with the total eclipse phase lasting 1 hour and 22 minutes.

The celestial event begins on the night of September 7 and peaks before dawn on September 8. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, with the Earth casting its shadow across the Moon's surface.

During this time, the Moon will be completely immersed in Earth’s umbra, causing its surface to glow red  -  a phenomenon known as the blood moon.

This upcoming lunar eclipse will span a total of 5 hours and 27 minutes. The full eclipse phase will occur from 12:30 AM to 1:52 AM (local time) on September 8.

Observers in Africa and Europe will have the best viewing conditions right after sunset. In Asia and Australia, the eclipse is best seen at midnight or before dawn. North and South America will miss the event as the Moon will remain below the horizon.

Globally, over 7 billion people will be able to witness this lunar spectacle, with around 6.2 billion people able to observe the full eclipse from start to finish. Vietnam is among the most ideally positioned countries to experience the blood moon.

Key stages of the eclipse include the penumbral phase starting at 10:28 PM on September 7, followed by the partial eclipse at 11:27 PM. The full blood moon begins at 12:30 AM on September 8, reaches maximum eclipse at 1:11 AM, and concludes at 1:52 AM.

According to the Hanoi Astronomical Society (HAS), this eclipse occurs just 2.6 days before the Moon reaches perigee (its closest point to Earth), making it appear larger and darker  -  a rare opportunity to view a super blood moon.

The lunar eclipse is completely safe to observe with the naked eye, without requiring any special equipment. However, using a telescope or binoculars can significantly enhance the experience.

To enjoy the best viewing conditions, observers should find open areas with a wide, unobstructed view of the sky, away from artificial lighting such as street lamps and building lights.

In addition to the eclipse, on September 21, Saturn and its iconic rings will appear in opposition to the Sun, offering another spectacular stargazing opportunity. Saturn will rise in the east after sunset, reach its highest point at midnight, and gradually descend toward the western horizon by dawn.

Hai Phong