A rare and breathtaking celestial event is set to grace the skies over Israel this Sunday evening, September 7, 2025, as the moon transforms into a glowing “blood moon” during a total lunar eclipse. Stargazers across the country will be able to witness this phenomenon in its entirety—no special equipment required, though binoculars or a telescope will offer an even better view.

During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth moves directly between the sun and the full moon, casting a deep shadow (the umbra) that covers the lunar surface. The moon doesn’t simply disappear: sunlight filtered through the Earth’s atmosphere bends into the shadow cone and bathes the moon in an otherworldly red glow. This happens because shorter blue wavelengths are scattered out, while longer red wavelengths reach the lunar surface—a process known as Rayleigh scattering, similar to what gives sunrises and sunsets their vivid colors.

For those watching in Israel, the experience starts soon after nightfall. As the moon rises over the horizon, the eclipse will already be underway. The drama builds as the shadow deepens, culminating in the moon’s full immersion into the Earth’s shadow—painting the entire disk a shimmering copper or rusty red. The “blood moon” effect at its peak is a sight that has inspired awe, superstition, and cosmic wonder for millennia.

This particular eclipse is drawing excitement not just for its beauty but for its rarity; such a complete and spectacular show won’t return to Israeli skies until 2028.

Here are the key times for Sunday’s lunar eclipse, in Israel Standard Time (IDT):

Everyone in Israel will be able to see the eclipse, weather permitting, simply by looking up to the eastern sky. The moon will be visible throughout the event, making this a prime opportunity for families, students, and sky enthusiasts to marvel together at one of nature’s grandest spectacles. Mark the date, and get ready for this memorable night—the next chance for such a dramatic lunar show won’t come again for several years.