Tag: Astronomy

Human Interest

Blood Moon Rising: Total Lunar Eclipse Coming September 7, 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

On the night of September 7, 2025, a spectacular total lunar eclipse will grace the skies, turning the Moon a fiery red in a phenomenon known as a Blood Moon. This rare event occurs when the Moon passes completely into Earth’s shadow, causing it to darken and glow in hues of deep crimson and burnt orange.

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. However, some sunlight still bends through Earth’s atmosphere and reaches the lunar surface. Blue and violet wavelengths are scattered in all directions (which is why the sky appears blue), while red and orange tones travel more directly. These warmer tones light up the Moon, giving it that iconic blood-red glow.

🌍 Where Will It Be Visible?

This eclipse will be widely visible from:

  • The Americas
  • Europe
  • Africa
  • Parts of Asia

Observers in these regions will be able to see the full or partial eclipse depending on their location. Check local times and moonrise/moonset data for the best visibility in your area.

You don’t need special equipment to witness this event — the Blood Moon is visible to the naked eye. However, a few tips can enhance your viewing experience:

  • Binoculars can reveal lunar surface details even during the eclipse.
  • Find a dark spot away from city lights for better contrast and clarity.
  • Bring a blanket or chair and make a night of it — the full eclipse lasts over an hour!

Celestial events like the Blood Moon are powerful reminders of our place in the universe — awe-inspiring, humbling, and free for all to enjoy. So mark your calendar, tell your friends, and step outside on September 7, 2025, to experience one of nature’s most breathtaking light shows.

International

Goan Jesuit Astronomer Fr Richard D’Souza Appointed Director of Vatican Observatory by Pope Leo XIV

Tanisha Cardozo

VATICAN CITY, July 31, 2025 – In a significant moment for the global scientific and ecclesial community, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Fr Richard Anthony D’Souza, S.J., as the new Director of the Vatican Observatory, succeeding Br Guy Consolmagno, S.J., whose tenure concludes on 19 September 2025.

Fr D’Souza, a native of Goa, India, and a doctoral scholar in astronomy, has been part of the Observatory since 2016 and currently serves as Superior of the Jesuit community attached to the institution. His new leadership signals both continuity and a bold progression in the Observatory’s mission of bridging science and faith.

A Legacy of Cosmic Curiosity

Founded in 1891 by Pope Leo XIII, the Vatican Observatory has long stood as a symbol of the Church’s embrace of scientific exploration. Its mission — “that the Church is not opposed to science, but promotes it” — remains alive through the works of Jesuit scientists around the world.

Fr D’Souza’s research spans galaxy formation and mergers, a field central to understanding the evolution of the universe. He earned his doctorate at the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics in Germany and completed a post-doctoral programme at the University of Michigan, USA.

Br Consolmagno praised the appointment:

“I am delighted His Holiness has chosen Fr D’Souza. He has the vision and wisdom to lead during a time of rapid change in astronomical research.”

Fr D’Souza responded with equal admiration:

“Br Consolmagno’s legacy lies in his dedication to the dialogue between science and faith. I am honoured to continue this mission.”

The Intersection of Cosmos and Spirit

The Vatican Observatory — with research centers in Castel Gandolfo and Tucson, Arizona — explores everything from galaxies and meteorites to cosmology and exoplanets. The staff consists predominantly of Jesuit scientists who collaborate globally to decode the mysteries of the universe.

Fr D’Souza’s appointment continues this tradition with fresh momentum. His leadership not only honors the past but points boldly toward the future — one where Indian scientists and global faith traditions converge among the stars.

“From the streets of Goa to the galaxies above — Fr D’Souza’s journey reminds us that science and spirituality are not opposites, but twin quests for truth.”

Human Interest

The Longest Solar Eclipse of the Century Is Coming on August 2, 2027

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

On August 2, 2027, the Earth will witness a stunning celestial event unlike anything seen in over a century — a total solar eclipse lasting over six minutes. Stretching across regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and southern Europe, this astronomical marvel is being hailed by scientists and space agencies as the longest and most significant eclipse of the 21st century.

For a full six minutes and twenty-three seconds in some locations, the Moon will completely cover the Sun, turning day into twilight, casting mysterious shadows, and revealing the elusive solar corona — a sight that most people on Earth will never experience in their lifetime.

The Path of Totality
 The eclipse’s path of totality will cross countries including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Oman, before reaching southern parts of Europe such as Greece and Turkey. This rare alignment offers a unique opportunity for scientists to study the Sun’s atmosphere and for travelers to witness a once-in-a-generation event.

Why It Matters
 NASA and astronomers worldwide are preparing for this eclipse years in advance. Not only is it the longest of this century, but it’s also an ideal opportunity for solar research and public engagement in astronomy.

This event will be especially meaningful for regions in its direct path — many of which have not experienced a total solar eclipse for centuries and won’t again for a long time. The next similarly long eclipse won’t happen until June 13, 2127.

Planning Your Eclipse Experience
 Whether you’re an avid skywatcher, a science educator, or a curious traveler, this eclipse is worth traveling for. Eclipse tourism is expected to boom in affected areas, so early planning is essential.

📌 Key Details:

  • Date: August 2, 2027
  • Duration of Totality: Up to 6 minutes, 23 seconds
  • Regions Affected: North Africa, the Middle East, Southern Europe
  • Next Opportunity: Not until 2127

Where will you be when the sky goes dark?

International

Kuwait Glows Under the Rare and Enchanting ‘Gazelle Moon’

allycaralgoa

Kuwait City, July 2025 – The skies over Kuwait were graced with a stunning and rare celestial event — the Gazelle Moon — a golden-hued full moon that enchanted stargazers and photographers alike with its soft, mystical glow.

Unlike typical full moons, the Gazelle Moon carries cultural and visual significance, particularly in Arab folklore where the moon is often likened to the elegance and gentleness of a gazelle — a creature symbolic of beauty, purity, and freedom.

As the moon rose over Kuwait’s skyline, it appeared larger and more golden than usual, casting a dreamy light over desert landscapes, city rooftops, and the Gulf waters. For many locals, the experience was a moment of peace and connection, inspiring poetry, prayer, and reflection.

Astronomers explained that this phenomenon occurs due to a combination of atmospheric conditions and lunar positioning, where the moon sits lower on the horizon, causing its light to scatter through dust and moisture, giving it a golden or amber hue.

“It’s not just a visual treat, but a reminder of the harmony between nature and culture,” said one local astronomy enthusiast. “The name ‘Gazelle Moon’ reflects how generations of people have tied celestial beauty to the stories of the land.”

The event quickly went viral on social media, with hashtags like #GazelleMoon and #GoldenMoon trending across the Gulf. Several amateur and professional photographers shared stunning visuals of the moon over Kuwait Towers, desert dunes, and palm-lined streets.

While the Gazelle Moon is rare, experts say we may witness similar events in the future — especially during warm months with dusty atmospheric layers. Until then, the memory of Kuwait glowing under a golden moon remains etched in the hearts of those lucky enough to see it.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Did You Know?

Rare Celestial Spectacle: Planetary Parade Illuminates Night Sky on January 25

allycaralgoa

A rare and breathtaking celestial event, known as a planetary parade or alignment, occurred on January 25, 2025, as Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune aligned in the night sky.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this extraordinary event was a result of the unique configuration of the planetary system and the different revolution periods of the planets. The alignment made it possible for observers to see Jupiter and Mars on the eastern sky, Saturn and Venus on the western sky with the naked eye, and Uranus and Neptune through a telescope.

The IMD described this event as “one of the rarest astronomical events,” highlighting the exceptional nature of this celestial spectacle. The planetary parade was a rare opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and the general public to witness a breathtaking display of celestial harmony.

This extraordinary event has sparked widespread interest and excitement among stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts, inspiring people to gaze up at the night sky and appreciate the beauty of the celestial world.