Jed Castles: Total Lunar Eclipse to light up Oklahoma skies

Oklahomans will have a front-row seat to a rare celestial event as a total lunar eclipse graces the night sky from the evening of March 13 into the early morning hours of March 14. This will be the first total lunar eclipse since November 2022, making it an exciting moment for stargazers across the Sooner State.

What is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, causing the Moon to pass into Earth's shadow. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon moves through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, known as the umbra, giving it a red-orange hue, commonly referred to as a "Blood Moon." Unlike a total solar eclipse, which is visible for only a few minutes in specific locations, a total lunar eclipse lasts for several hours and can be seen by a much larger portion of the world.

When & Where to Watch in Oklahoma

The total lunar eclipse will be visible across all of Oklahoma, provided the weather cooperates. 

Here’s a breakdown of key times to catch the event:

1. Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 10:57 PM (March 13)
2. Partial Eclipse Begins: 11:59 PM
3. Total Eclipse Begins: 1:26 AM (March 14)
4. Total Eclipse Ends: 2:31 AM
5. Partial Eclipse Ends: 3:46 AM
6. Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 5:00 AM

Best Viewing Tips

To get the most out of this lunar spectacle, NASA recommends:

✔ Finding a dark location away from city lights for better visibility.

✔ Using binoculars or a telescope to enhance the view of the Moon's red-orange glow.

✔ Looking toward the western sky, where Jupiter and Mars may also be visible during the eclipse.

Looking Ahead

If you miss this eclipse, you’ll have to wait until September 7, 2025, for the next total lunar eclipse.