The Moon will rise eclipsed this Sunday, September 7th. The phenomenon, called a Red Moon or Blood Moon, will be visible from Nice starting at 7:54 PM, provided there is a clear horizon to the east.
This Sunday evening, residents of Nice will be able to witness a rare astronomical event. A total lunar eclipse, accompanied by a spectacular color change, will be visible in the azure skies. The Moon will rise already partially concealed in Earth’s shadow, offering the region’s residents a privileged view.
In Nice, moonrise is expected at 7:54 PM. This timing allows for the best viewing of the eclipse, expected at 8:11 PM. The phenomenon will then last until 9:56 PM, when the Moon will fully emerge from Earth’s shadow. The Côte d’Azur is anticipated to enjoy clear skies, which should theoretically favor observation.
The peculiarity of this eclipse lies in the red tint that the lunar surface will take. This color, a result of the scattering of solar rays in Earth’s atmosphere, earns it the nickname “Blood Moon.” Like during a sunset, only the red rays reach the Moon’s surface, giving it a coppery appearance.
Specialists advise choosing a location with an unobstructed view to the east. The horizon should not be blocked by buildings or terrain. Light pollution can reduce visibility. Moving away from the city center of Nice, towards the hills or the coast, increases the chances of enjoying the spectacle.
An accessible event for all
The lunar eclipse presents no danger to the eyes. Unlike a solar eclipse, it can be observed without special protection. Curious onlookers can watch it with the naked eye. Binoculars or a telescope will, however, provide more details, especially on the color nuances that will evolve throughout the evening.
The phenomenon is not instantaneous. The Moon will remain tinged red for nearly an hour before gradually returning to its usual color. This slow pace allows time to observe and share the experience.
La Cité de l’Espace, in Toulouse, reminds us that “the Moon has a rendezvous with Earth’s shadow”. According to them, “in this shadow, the Moon takes on red or coppery hues” that vary depending on the state of the atmosphere at the time of the eclipse.
For astronomy enthusiasts as well as the simply curious, this evening promises to be an opportunity to look up at the sky. In Nice and the entire Paca region, the visibility should be good.
Key times to remember in Nice and France
- Moonrise in Nice: 7:54 PM
- Maximum eclipse: 8:11 PM
- End of eclipse: 9:56 PM
Elsewhere in France, the times differ. Marseille will see the Moon at 8:11 PM, Toulouse at 8:17 PM, Paris at 8:19 PM, Rennes at 8:34 PM, and Brest at 8:46 PM. The farther east one is, the more complete the phenomenon is at the time of moonrise.
This is the second lunar eclipse of the year 2025. The previous one occurred on March 14th. The next astronomical event of this kind will not occur for several months.
In Nice, this evening of Sunday, September 7th, 2025 will thus offer a unique opportunity to observe the sky. By looking eastwards and moving away from artificial lights, everyone will be able to follow step by step the Moon’s emergence from Earth’s shadow.
