Scottish residents have been fortunate enough to witness some truly spectacular cosmic events this year. The Northern Lights graced our skies for the umpteenth time just this week, which readers shared their spectacular photos of.
The Perseid meteor shower also dazzled us with streaks of bright light in early August – one of the most breathtaking displays of 2025 so far – and this weekend brings another mesmerising celestial spectacle.
Sky-watchers across the UK are in for a rare treat as a total lunar eclipse, often called a ‘blood moon,’ will be visible over Scotland on the evening of Sunday, September 7. The moon will only be visible for a brief time, however.
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As the full Moon passes through Earth’s shadow, it will take on a deep red hue, creating a striking spectacle for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. But will the weather cooperate?
Here’s the forecast and everything you need to know to make the most of this astronomical event, reports the Record.
Where will skies be clearest?
On Sunday, September 7, the moon will transform into a deep, dark red, known as a ‘Blood Moon -Credit:AFP or licensors
Cloud cover will be the main obstacle, so flexibility and a bit of luck will be key. If you’re clouded out, remember that the next opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse from the UK will be August 28, 2026.
The Met Office says Sunday evening will bring fairly cloudy conditions to many areas of the UK. There is good news for the east and northeast, though, as the cloud may be thin enough to allow some hazy sunshine earlier in the day and clearer skies by evening.
“Rain is expected to spread into the west and southwest, making erratic progress north-eastwards,” the forecaster went on. “These showers could be heavy in places and especially persistent on south and southeast-facing hills.
“Some eastern and north-eastern parts of the country could remain largely dry until later in the day, increasing the chances of a clear view of the eclipse. Winds could up, though, and become strong for a lot of areas.”
The clearest skies for viewing the moon are most likely across the east southwest and, annoyingly for Scots, part of Eastern England. In Glasgow, the forecast shows cloud cover dropping to a decent 40 per cent by 11pm, though.
In Edinburgh, it is much lower, at 30 per cent – proving that heading east may be a good shout – while up north, spots like Skye and Fort William are sitting between a rather less appealing 50-80 per cent chance of cloud.
When exactly can we expect the total lunar eclipse?
The moon will be low on the horizon, so knowing where to look is crucial for those hoping to witness the eclipse -Credit:George Calvelo/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Blood Moon will ascend above the horizon just in time for us to witness it.
The peak of the event will occur at 7.33pm BST from the UK, with the actual maximum of the eclipse happening at 7.11pm when the Moon is beneath our horizon and thus out of sight.
The Moon will then gradually exit Earth’s umbra until 9.55pm.
How to view the blood moon
A high vantage point with an unobstructed view to the East will be necessary to fully appreciate the eclipse.
Plan to be in position ahead of 7:30pm with as clear a view of the eastern horizon as possible.
If reaching a high point isn’t feasible, any areas with a clear horizon will be perfect for observing this low-hanging moon and its eclipse like a hill or a popular viewpoint.
Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience, but the eclipse is easily visible to the naked eye.
Top Scottish locations to catch the lunar eclipseBeaches
The prime beach for stargazing is Luskentyre Beach on the west coast of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. This beach’s lack of light pollution has earned it recognition as one of the finest in the entire UK for observing the night sky.
For those on the mainland, nearly any beach will serve as an excellent vantage point for observing the moon.
Plains
A grassy field or plain is another ideal location for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the low-lying lunar eclipse.
Large, flat expanses of land are more typically found in Scotland’s lowlands as opposed to the mountainous Highlands. If you reside near any farmland or wide-open fields, you could be within reach of a prime viewing spot.
Mountains or hills
For those living near Glasgow, Ballageich Hill is just a 25-minute car journey away, while Conic Hill, near Balmaha, is a short climb and approximately an hour’s drive from the city.
It’s crucial to be well-prepared for a nocturnal hill or mountain climb with sturdy footwear, suitable attire, a torch (red-light torches are recommended to avoid disturbing wildlife), and a functioning mobile phone for emergencies.
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