March’s full moon always brings a touch of folklore and seasonal change, but this year, skywatchers on Long Island are in for a truly spectacular sight. The Blood Worm Moon—a rare combination of a total lunar eclipse and the final full moon of winter—will light up the night sky in dramatic fashion on March 13-14, 2025.
For 65 mesmerizing minutes, the moon will transform into a deep, eerie red before returning to its usual brilliance. Then, the following evening, the Worm Moon will rise in full, marking the transition from winter to spring. Whether you’re a dedicated astronomer or just someone who loves a good celestial event, this is one night you won’t want to miss.
When and Where to See the Blood Worm Moon on Long Island
Long Islanders will get a prime viewing experience of this celestial double feature, provided the skies remain clear.
Total Lunar Eclipse Details (March 14, 2025):
- Partial eclipse begins: 1:47 a.m. EDT
- Total eclipse (Blood Moon) starts: 2:26 a.m. EDT
- Maximum eclipse: 2:59 a.m. EDT
- Total eclipse ends: 3:31 a.m. EDT
- Partial eclipse concludes: 4:10 a.m. EDT
To see the best of the Blood Moon, step outside between 2:26 a.m. and 3:31 a.m. EDT when the entire moon will be bathed in a reddish glow. The farther you are from city lights, the better—so head to places like Montauk Point, Jones Beach, or Wildwood State Park for unobstructed views over the water.
Worm Moon Rising (March 14, 2025, Evening):
- Sunset: 7:01 p.m. EDT
- Moonrise: 7:38 p.m. EDT
After the lunar eclipse spectacle, don’t forget to catch the Worm Moon as it rises in the east just after sunset. This will be a great moment for photography, especially near Long Island’s coastline.
What Is a Blood Moon?
A Blood Moon occurs during a total lunar eclipse, when Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. The red color happens because Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light (blues and greens), while allowing longer wavelengths (reds and oranges) to filter through. Essentially, every sunrise and sunset on Earth at that moment is being projected onto the moon—which is pretty mind-blowing when you think about it.
Why Is It Called the Worm Moon?
March’s full moon is known as the Worm Moon due to the seasonal thaw that brings earthworms back to the surface, signaling the arrival of spring. However, some believe the name comes from beetle larvae that emerge from tree bark during this time. Other historical names for this moon include:
- Crow Moon (for crows signaling the end of winter)
- Crust Moon (for the icy crust formed on snow)
- Sap Moon (for maple sap flowing in early spring)
- Sore Eyes Moon (for bright snow glare)
Fun & Crazy Facts About the Blood Worm Moon
- A Once-in-Three-Years Event – Total lunar eclipses aren’t rare, but one happening in March just before a full Worm Moon? That’s a treat we won’t see again for years.
- It’s a Trick of the Light – The moon isn’t actually red—it just looks that way because of how Earth’s atmosphere bends light.
- Moonbows Are Possible – If it drizzles lightly during the full moon, a rare “moonbow” (a rainbow made by moonlight) can appear.
- Long Island Has Prime Viewing Spots – Locations like Montauk Point, Cedar Beach, and Robert Moses State Park offer excellent dark-sky conditions.
- Jupiter and Mars Will Be Visible – During the eclipse, look westward to spot two bright planets near the horizon.
- The Next Eclipse Isn’t Far Off – If you miss this one, a partial solar eclipse will take place on March 29, 2025, visible from the northeastern U.S.
Best Tips for Watching the Blood Worm Moon on Long Island
- Find a Dark Sky Spot – The less light pollution, the better. Head to beaches, state parks, or even the East End for clearer views.
- Dress Warmly – March nights can still be cold, so bundle up if you’re planning on stargazing for a while.
- Use Binoculars or a Telescope – The lunar surface will look stunning through a little magnification.
- Bring a Camera – A long exposure shot during totality will capture the eerie red glow in stunning detail.
- Check the Weather Forecast – Cloud cover can make or break your viewing experience.
This Blood Worm Moon is shaping up to be one of the most stunning astronomical events of 2025. Whether you stay up late for the total lunar eclipse or simply step outside to admire the glowing Worm Moon rising over Long Island’s waters, make sure you don’t miss this celestial spectacle!
Where will you be watching from? Let us know!
Photo: Blood moon. by Lon S. Cohen.
