Blood red Moon images and eclipse context
A “Blood Moon” is a total lunar eclipse photographed while the Moon is inside Earth's umbral shadow. The colour can range from copper and orange to deep red depending on atmospheric conditions and exposure.
Why the eclipsed Moon looks red
Earth blocks direct sunlight during totality. Some sunlight passes through the edge of Earth's atmosphere, where shorter blue wavelengths are scattered more strongly. The remaining red and orange light is refracted into the shadow and illuminates the Moon.
A camera records colour differently according to white balance, exposure, lens, haze and image processing. A photograph is therefore evidence of one observing and imaging setup, not a fixed colour standard.
Trusted eclipse image collections
Use the linked source page to confirm the licence and credit for an individual image before reusing it.
Photographing a total lunar eclipse
- Use a stable tripod and remote or delayed shutter release.
- Bracket exposures because the Moon becomes much dimmer during totality.
- Record the capture time, location, lens, exposure and editing choices with published images.
- Never infer the next eclipse from a phase calendar alone; eclipse geometry also depends on the lunar nodes.
Use the principal phase schedule for full Moon dates, then consult an eclipse authority for visibility and contact times.