The phrase Blood Moon  sounds quite ominous, and flashy, but what does it actually mean? A sign from the  heavens, or perhaps some form of magic; or just a natural phenomenon? Let’s find out the meaning  of the Blood Moon from the scientific point of view, the mythical point of view, and what it  may mean for you.

The Science of the Blood Moon

A Blood Moon is simply another  name for a total lunar eclipse. This happens when the Earth comes between the Sun and  Moon, so that the Sun’s light is cut off. However, it doesn’t turn the moon completely black,  it turns red. This happens because of Rayleigh scattering – the same reason behind the red colour of the sunset. The atmosphere of Earth filters out sunlight which only allows red light to reach the  Moon, thus the bloody appearance.

Everything You Need to Know About the Blood Moon 

Why Does the Moon Become Red?

This is not caused by  magic or some alien technology, it is the science. When light from the sun passes through the atmosphere  of Earth, the short blue wavelengths of light are scattered (this is why the sky is blue during  the day), leaving the red light to reach the moon. The presence of more dust or pollution in  the atmosphere makes the Moon appear redder.

Is the Blood Moon Rare?

Total lunar eclipses  happen at least twice every few years, and so they are not uncommon in astronomy. However, whether  you get to see one depends on your location and the weather. Some Blood Moons are part of  a series called a tetrad, in which four total lunar eclipses happen within two years.  This is where things get really exciting for skywatchers and some doomsday prophets too !

What is the meaning of the Blood Moon in mythology and culture?

Many ancient cultures considered lunar  eclipses as omens and often related them to wars, disasters or supernatural phenomena. Here are some  of the most fascinating beliefs:

• Norse Mythology – The Vikings thought that a  wolf, Sköll, was in pursuit of and attempting to devour the Moon, which caused the  eclipse.
• Mesopotamian Beliefs – The ancient Babylonians regarded lunar eclipses  as a sign that their king was in danger, so they would appoint another temporary king to avoid disaster.
• Incan Legends– The Inca believed that a jaguar was coming to get  the Moon and they would make a lot of noise to make it go away.
• Christian  Prophecy– Some religious groups have associated Blood Moons with the biblical apocalyptic signs especially those found  in the Book of Joel and the Book of Revelation.
• Hindu Traditions –  The demon Rahu was believed to swallow the Moon, however since he had no body,  it would be void and the moon was visible during the eclipse and appeared red.
• Chinese Mythology – The ancient Chinese thought that a celestial dragon was swallowing the Moon, and they  would beat drums to shoo it away.
• Native American Beliefs– Many tribes considered  lunar eclipses as a time of change, or new beginning, or a time of imbalance in nature.

What does the Blood Moon mean spiritually?

In contemporary spirituality and astrology, a Blood  Moon is said to be a time of heightened energy, which can affect feelings and decisions. Some of the interpretations  include:

- High level of emotions – Many people feel more sensitive or even have a lot  of dreams during the Blood Moon.
- Manifestation– Some spiritualists employ the  use of lunar eclipses to meditate, set goals, or perform rituals in order to enhance individual  development.
- Zodiac Influence– Astrologers was that the energy of the Blood Moon  depends on the zodiac sign in which it occurs and influences certain areas of life.

How  to have a Blood Moon experience

To watch a Blood Moon, the best way is  to try to find yourself a dark-sky location that is far from city lights. Some  of them are:

- Observatories like the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, USA or the  Royal Observatory Greenwich in London, UK.
- Dark-sky reserves including Aoraki  Mackenzie (New Zealand), or Jasper National Park (Canada).
- High altitude areas such as  Mauna Kea in Hawaii for an unobstructed view of the sky.
- Live  Streams – If the weather is not good, you can watch lunar eclipses coverage from space agencies  and astronomy channels.

The best advice for observing the Blood Moon

- Avoid city lights – To get a better view, go to a rural or highland area.
- Check the  timing– Totality could last for minutes to hours depending on the eclipse.
- Bring  binoculars or a telescope– Although the Moon is easily visible to the naked eye, using optical  instruments provides a better view.
- Take photos! – Use a tripod and change your camera  settings for the best shot of the lunar eclipse.

The Original Alien Abduction Lamp’s Take: So, what do the aliens do?

If aliens are watching, then a Blood Moon must be  quite an occasion. Perhaps it is a call, a signal from the other side of the galaxy,  or just the time to kidnap cows (we don’t write the rules, after all). Some  theorists even claim that UFO sightings rise during lunar eclipses – are extraterrestrials using the  red glow as a cosmic signal? It’s just a theory, but either way, it’s the  perfect excuse to turn off the light, step out, and enjoy the stars. And while you’re  at it, light up your room with The Original Alien Abduction Lamp, the perfect way to  illuminate the mysteries of the universe.

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