Residents across Nigeria and several West African countries will be treated to a spectacular total lunar eclipse tonight, Sunday, September 7, 2025, beginning around 8:00 p.m. West Africa Time.
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According to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), scientists confirmed that the eclipse will be visible across much of Africa, offering millions the chance to see the Moon glowing in deep shades of red, often called a “blood moon.”
The celestial event is expected to last about 83 minutes, with remote parts of Nigeria such as Yobe and Borno providing clearer views due to limited light pollution. However, some western locations may miss the early stages as the Moon will rise after the eclipse has already reached totality.
Experts explained that a total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align in such a way that Earth’s shadow completely covers the Moon. Unlike solar eclipses, this phenomenon can be observed safely with the naked eye.
NASA classifies lunar eclipses into three types: total, partial, and penumbral. Tonight’s display falls into the rarest category, where the entire lunar surface will be darkened and transformed by Earth’s shadow.
Although West Africa is expected to have prime viewing conditions, the eclipse will also be visible across Europe, Asia, and Australia. The Moon’s reddish tint will occur as sunlight bends and scatters through Earth’s atmosphere, filtering out blue light and casting a coppery glow.
