The first major celestial event of September will be a total lunar eclipse, visible from Luxembourg on Sunday evening.

At the height of the alignment, the Moon will pass through Earth’s shadow and turn a deep red – a phenomenon often nicknamed a Blood Moon. The eclipse will be the second of its kind in 2025, following the March event that was widely observed across North America.

This time, Luxembourg will be among the best-placed regions to witness it. The Moon rises over the capital shortly after 8pm already partly eclipsed. The eclipse will reach maximum at around 8.11pm, when the Moon will appear low on the eastern horizon in striking shades of copper and crimson. Totality will last until 8.52 pm, with the eclipse gradually fading before ending just before 11pm.

Astronomers advise choosing an open location with a clear view to the east or south-east, since buildings and hills may obscure the low-rising Moon in the early stages. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to observe with the naked eye, though binoculars and small telescopes can enhance the view.

While the spectacle will be visible across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and much of Antarctica, those in North and South America will miss it entirely. For them, the consolation prize will be a bright full Moon, the final one of the astronomical summer.

The intensity of the Moon’s colour during totality will depend on atmospheric conditions on the night. Dust, clouds or pollution can deepen the red tones, while a clearer sky may produce a lighter copper hue.