Philadelphians are in for a treat –for one night only a ‘blood worm moon’ total eclipse will illuminate the night. In fact, it will be visible from the evening of Thursday March 13th to the early morning of March 14th!
What is a ‘blood worm moon’?
Simply put, a ‘worm moon’ is the name attributed to March’s full moon. Like many moon names, these were chosen by Native Americans to indicate seasonal changes. Specifically, the ‘worm moon’ correlates with the reemergence of worm tails on freshly, thawed grass signifying the end of winter. Moreover, tonight’s ‘worm moon’ will be a blood one as it coincides with a total lunar eclipse.
In other words, March’s full moon will be blood red!
What is a total lunar eclipse?
According to NASA, a total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and its shadow covers the Moon. Once it reaches full totality, the moon will appear bright red.
When will the ‘blood worm moon’ be visible over Philadelphia?
According to NASA, the eclipse is taking place from Thursday, March 13, to Friday, March 14, 2025. Additionally, the best viewing times depend on time zone.
Specifically, in Philadelphia (Eastern Time Zone) the partial eclipse begins around 1 a.m. as the moon “begins to enter Earth’s umbra,” NASA says.
“It will look “like a bite is being taken out of the lunar disk,” NASA says.
Totality begins around 2:26 a.m. ET –the moon will be tinted a coppery red -and ends at 3:31 a.m. ET.
How can you view the ‘blood worm moon’ from the Philadelphia region?
To see the ‘blood worm moon’ tonight use binoculars or a telescope for a better view, although it may be visible to the naked eye.
Moreover, visibility will also be dependent upon cloud coverage. As it stands, we can expect partly cloudy skies into Friday morning over Philadelphia.
However, a short drive inland to the west and north of should take one out from under the clouds into clear skies.
Even still, you should be able to catch a glimpse of the eclipse –it will be worth getting up for!
The next lunar eclipse over the Americas will be on March 3, 2026.