That sense of curiosity that grips you at nightfall? In just a few evenings, the night of Sept. 7 promises to amaze with a chilling spectacle that has frightened whole peoples in the past: if you’re ready to stay with your nose to the sky, the firmament will give you a special thrill. No, it’s not a scene from a movie: it’s real, real, and-it’s really going to happen on the evening of Sept. 7.
The “Blood Moon” arrives in Milan.
Have you ever heard of a “Red Moon” or “Blood Moon?” It is a total lunar eclipse, when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the satellite. The Moon first enters penumbra (invisible), then the actual shadow: it is during this phase that the Sun’s light, filtered by Earth’s atmosphere, is scattered and deflects the blue wavelengths, letting the red ones through. The result? A reddish Moon, intense and almost surreal.
Total eclipses of the Moon are not that frequent: on average there are one to three a year, but they are not always visible from Italy. In 2025 we will have two, and the one on September 7 will be the most favorable one for us, as well as a Supermoon, that is, a full Moon that appears larger and brighter because it is at the closest point to Earth in its orbit (called perigee).
Anecdotes, myths and legends
The “Blood Moon” is not just an astronomical phenomenon: it has inspired myths and legends for millennia. In many cultures, the red color of the satellite was considered a bad omen: impending battles, extraordinary events, even the end of time.
In Mesopotamia, a red moon was believed to signal the ill will of the gods; in some North American traditions, however, it was seen as the work of fairy creatures or spirits. In medieval Europe, on the other hand, a total eclipse of the Moon was linked to religious omens and prophecies. Today we know it is pure celestial physics, but the history-laden atmosphere adds magic to the observation.
When the eclipse will be seen in Milan’s capital city
From Milan, unfortunately, we will not see the eclipse from the beginning on September 7, because the Moon will already rise partially eclipsed around 7:35-7:40 p.m., just after the Sun sets. The moment of maximum obscuration will be reached more or less around 20:10-20:12, followed by the complete exit from totality between 20:52 and 21:00, while the phenomenon will end around 22:55.
Translated: from 7:35 p.m. until just before 11 p.m., next Sunday the sky over Milan will offer one of the most exciting shows of the year. We just have to hope that the clouds don’t decide to spoil our party.
Where to watch the event around Milan
Those who live in the city don’t have to settle for the balcony (although that’s perfectly fine): here are a few great places for an even more immersive experience:
- Sempione Park: plenty of space, open views and visible sky among the trees.
- Duomo Terrace (if open in the evening): a red moon peeking out behind the Madonnina is an unforgettable postcard.
- Indro Montanelli Gardens: a green oasis in the heart of Milan, perfect for sky watching.
- San Vigilio Hill in Bergamo: if you are in the mood for a short trip, the panorama provides a breathtaking view.
- Evenings with astrophiles: several associations organize guided observations with telescopes, explanations and activities-a perfect idea for families or groups of friends.
So mark the date: Sept. 7, from 7:30 p.m. onwards, eyes up … and enjoy the Moon turning red, a unique and evocative spectacle that combines science, magic and a hint of legend.