‘Blood Worm Moon’ to dazzle North & South America on March 14

A total lunar eclipse as well as the "Blood Worm Moon," will appear simultaneously on March 14, making March’s full moon appear red for a short time.

This rare phenomenon will be visible from the Western Hemisphere, with the best views available in North and South America.

However, those residing in Europe and Africa might also catch a glimpse.

The full moon will reach peak illumination at 2:55am ET on Friday (March 14); however, the total lunar eclipse will begin earlier, at 11:57pm EDT on March 13.

According to NASA, the full moon will gradually dim as it moves through Earth's shadow, with the peak viewing opportunity for the red moon appearing around 2:5 am.

The moon will exit from Earth's full shadow between 3:31am and 4:45am, and will leave the last of the partial shadow at 6am ending the lunar eclipse.

It should be noted that the moon will appear red during the lunar eclipse because the Earth's atmosphere filters the sunlight, scattering shorter wavelengths of light and allowing longer wavelengths, such as red and orange, to pass through.

This phenomenon will give the moon its distinctive reddish shade.

The "Blood Worm Moon" is also sometimes referred to as the Worm Moon, Eagle Moon, Goose Moon, or Crow Comes Back Moon.

These traditional names reflect the changing seasons and the behaviours of animals during this time of year.

Notably, skygazers won't need special equipment to observe the eclipse, but binoculars or a telescope will enhance the view.

Moreover, finding a dark location away from bright lights will provide the best viewing conditions.