Parts of the world treated to a rare 'blood moon' during total lunar eclipse

Parts of the world were treated to a rare “blood moon” on Tuesday as a total lunar eclipse graced the sky.

A total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth passes directly between the sun and a full moon, casting a shadow over its surface and causing it to appear red or dark orange.

The phenomenon was visible during the late hours of Tuesday evening in Australia, New Zealand, Tokyo, the Philippines, India, and China, and the early hours of US cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and New Orleans.

Such eclipses only occur every 18 months to three years, with the next one expected to appear on New Year’s Eve 2028.

The blood moon visible over Ahmedabad, in India / Credit: AP

A partial lunar eclipse will also be visible on August 28 from parts of Africa, the East Pacific, the Americas and Europe, according to Nasa.

While the blood moon was not visible from the UK, Brits had a chance to spot the “worm moon” – the March full moon – at its fullest point this morning, with another opportunity to see it Tuesday night.

The worm moon is thought to get its name from earthworms starting to emerge from the soil at this time of year as the weather becomes warmer.

Stargazers may also be able to see Jupiter and Venus this month, as astronomers have said the planets will be visible for several weeks.

Experts recommend viewing the sky with binoculars or a telescope, away from city lights, and using the aid of astronomical websites to track the planets’ positions.