Blood moon eclipse to be visible across Nigeria and Africa this evening

Millions across Nigeria and neighboring nations will witness a rare celestial display this Sunday, September 7, as a total lunar eclipse turns the Moon to a deep red hue. The astral event is set to commence around 8:00 PM West African Time and last for nearly an hour and a half.

This cosmic phenomenon, often dubbed the “blood moon,” occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, causing the Earth’s shadow to cover the lunar surface fully. According to experts from the National Television Authority (NTA), the spectacle will be observable throughout most of Africa, including countries such as Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, and Chad.

Observers the western regions might miss parts of the early penumbral or partial phases as the Moon will rise near or during the peak of the eclipse. Skywatchers are assured that the event is completely safe to view without any specialized eye protection, unlike solar eclipses.

The reddish tint, caused by sunlight bending through Earth’s atmosphere, adds an enchanting visual allure.

Historically, Nigeria has seen several notable eclipses in recent years, from a brief total solar eclipse in 2006 to partial lunar displays in 2013 and 2018. The National Space Research and Development Agency confirms totality will begin around 6:31 PM local time, with the maximum eclipse occurring just before 7:12 PM.