Total lunar eclipse to hit Nigerian skies Sunday

Nigerians, along with millions across West Africa, will witness a rare celestial spectacle on Sunday, September 7, when a total lunar eclipse unfolds in the night sky.

The eclipse is expected to begin around 8:00 PM West Africa Time and will last for roughly 83 minutes, turning the Moon into a deep reddish shade that is sure to draw the attention of skywatchers.

According to the National Television Authority, scientists confirmed that the eclipse would be visible across most parts of Africa.

“Countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, Chad, and São Tomé and Príncipe will experience the eclipse, though the westernmost areas may miss parts of the early penumbral or partial phases due to the Moon rising closer to or during totality,” the network reported on Sunday.

Although some western regions may miss the initial phases, the full display will still be visible in large parts of Nigeria, offering a safe and memorable viewing opportunity.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon line up in such a way that Earth’s shadow completely covers the lunar surface.

NASA explains that eclipses can be total, partial, or penumbral, and forecasts that Sunday’s phenomenon will be visible in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The distinctive red glow, often described as a “blood moon,” happens because sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere before reaching the Moon. NASA has also linked the reddish tint to recent studies on temperature changes on the lunar surface during eclipses.

Unlike solar eclipses, which require protective glasses, the lunar event can be viewed safely with the naked eye.

Rural parts of Nigeria, especially Yobe and Borno, are predicted to provide the clearest views thanks to minimal light pollution