A rare total lunar eclipse, widely known as a ‘Blood Moon’, was visible across Bangladesh on Tuesday night, drawing large crowds of skywatchers in different parts of the country.
The celestial event was particularly prominent in Chatmohar upazila of Pabna district, while residents in Dhaka, Chattogram, Barishal and Rangpur also gathered to watch the spectacle.
The eclipse was the only total lunar eclipse expected to occur in 2026, according to astronomers.
During the peak phase, the moon turned a deep reddish colour instead of disappearing completely as the Earth’s shadow covered the lunar surface.
Scientists said the reddish appearance occurs because sunlight passing through the Earth’s atmosphere scatters blue wavelengths while allowing red wavelengths to reach and illuminate the moon.
The intensity of the colour can vary from bright red to dark copper or brown depending on the level of dust, water vapour and pollution in the atmosphere.
Experts also noted that observing a lunar eclipse is completely safe, unlike a solar eclipse, and does not require special eye protection.
People were able to view the phenomenon with the naked eye as well as through binoculars or telescopes.
Photos and videos of the crimson moon spread widely on social media, reflecting strong public interest in the rare astronomical event.
