07/09/2025
Get a glimpse into tonight’s celestial spectacle—a vibrant Blood Moon—the total lunar eclipse unfolding over Cape Town, captured in the image above. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of this rare sight:
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What’s Happening Tonight?
A total lunar eclipse, known as a Blood Moon, is occurring on Sunday, 7 September 2025. During totality, Earth completely blocks sunlight from directly hitting the Moon, casting it in an eerie reddish hue from refracted light in our atmosphere—think dramatic sunset glow.
This is one of the longest total lunar eclipses in recent years, with totality lasting approximately 82 minutes.
Viewing Times for Cape Town (SAST)
Totality begins around 7:30 PM and continues until 8:52 PM.
The peak moment, when the Moon is fully immersed in Earth's shadow, occurs at approximately 8:11 PM SAST.
Where to Watch Locally
Cape Town offers some truly iconic vantage points with unobstructed eastern horizons—ideal for catching the full spectacle:
Signal Hill – Broad views over the city; perfect for group gatherings and picnics.
Sea Point Promenade – Laidback added bonus: moonlight reflections on the water.
Bloubergstrand – Fantastic for dramatic shots with the red Moon rising above Table Mountain.
Kloof Corner or Lion’s Head trailhead – A short hike gives big vantage points—go with friends and bring flashlights if you choose this route.
Tips: Arrive early, pack warm layers, snacks, and maybe a flask of something cozy. Parking fills up quickly, so plan your timing and transport accordingly.
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Capturing the Moment
For smartphones: Use a tripod and enable night mode. Avoid excessive zoom—crop later for better results.
For dedicated cameras: Aim for 200 mm+ lenses. Use short exposures while the Moon is brighter, then gradually increase exposure time as it reddens. Bracketing shots can help get the perfect exposure.
Framing tip: Include Cape Town landmarks—Table Mountain silhouette, palm trees, lighthouses—for a more compelling composition.
Why It’s Special
This eclipse is visible across Africa, Asia, and Europe—including Cape Town—as the Moon rises in eclipse, offering a spectacular sight to billions.
The red hue is due to Rayleigh scattering, where Earth’s atmosphere filters blue light and bends red wavelengths onto the Moon.
Per local weather forecasts, conditions this evening should be mostly clear, making for favorable viewing across South Africa.
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Summary Table
Detail Information
Event Total Lunar Eclipse (Blood Moon)
Date Sunday, 7 September 2025
Totality window 7:30 PM – 8:52 PM (SAST)
Peak (maximum) Around 8:11 PM (SAST)
Viewing spots Signal Hill, Sea Point, Bloubergstrand, Kloof Corner/Lion’s Head
Best to bring Warm clothes, snacks, tripod, camera
Reason for red Rayleigh scattering of sunlight
Visibility Africa, Asia, Europe—widely visible
Weather expectations Mostly clear skies over Cape Town
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