Tonight, March 13, 2025, Canada is in for a rare celestial treat: a total lunar eclipse paired with a potential northern lights display.
Imagine the moon glowing red as a “blood moon” while the sky shimmers with vibrant green auroras.
This spectacular double event will be visible across various parts of Canada, making it a must-see for skywatchers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to catch the northern lights and the total lunar eclipse, including the best locations, viewing times, and tips for an unforgettable experience.
Read on to ensure you don’t miss this cosmic show!
Table of Contents
What’s Happening Tonight in Canada?
On the night of March 13 into the early hours of March 14, 2025, two incredible astronomical events will light up the Canadian sky.
A total lunar eclipse will turn the moon a striking reddish hue, earning it the nickname “blood moon.”
At the same time, the northern lights (aurora borealis) may dance across the sky, adding a greenish glow to the night.
This rare combination offers a unique opportunity for Canadians to witness nature’s beauty at its finest.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted that the northern lights could be visible in several Canadian regions tonight.
Meanwhile, the total lunar eclipse will be visible nationwide, weather permitting. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a casual observer, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Where to See the Northern Lights in Canada Tonight
The northern lights are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere, creating a dazzling display of colors, typically green.
According to NOAA’s aurora forecast for March 13, 2025, the northern lights could be visible across a wide swath of Canada.
Here’s where you might catch them:
Prime Viewing Locations
Edmonton, Alberta: Clear northern views make this a hotspot.
Banff, Alberta: Stunning mountain backdrops enhance the experience.
Calgary, Alberta: Look north for a chance to see the aurora.
Lethbridge, Alberta: Open skies increase visibility.
Regina, Saskatchewan: Flat terrain offers unobstructed views.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: A prime spot for aurora chasers.
Winnipeg, Manitoba: Northern lights may light up the sky.
Brandon, Manitoba: Another great Manitoba location.
Churchill, Manitoba: Known as the “Polar Bear Capital,” it’s also an aurora hub.
Thunder Bay, Ontario: Northern Ontario’s gateway to the lights.
Moosonee, Ontario: Remote and perfect for aurora viewing.
Along the View Line (Northern Horizon)
If you’re located along NOAA’s aurora view line, the northern lights may appear low on the northern horizon.
These locations include:
Vancouver, British Columbia: Look north from coastal areas.
Kelowna, British Columbia: Inland opportunities for aurora spotting.
Sudbury, Ontario: A northern Ontario gem.
Timmins, Ontario: Remote and dark skies.
Quebec City, Quebec: Historic city with a cosmic twist.
Saguenay, Quebec: Northern Quebec’s aurora potential.
Gaspé, Quebec: Coastal views of the lights.
Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador: Atlantic Canada’s chance to shine.
Viewing Tips for the Northern Lights
Timing: The aurora typically becomes visible a few hours after sunset and peaks around midnight, according to the Canadian Space Agency.
Location: Choose a spot with minimal light pollution, such as rural areas or parks.
Direction: Look all around, as auroras can appear anywhere in the sky. If you’re along the view line, focus on the northern horizon.
Equipment: No special gear is needed—just your eyes! However, a camera with a long exposure setting can capture stunning photos.
Total Lunar Eclipse: Blood Moon Details
A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that turns the moon red.
This phenomenon, known as a “blood moon,” will be visible across all of Canada on the night of March 13-14, 2025.
Unlike the northern lights, which depend on solar activity and location, the lunar eclipse is a nationwide event, observable from any clear vantage point.
Lunar Eclipse Phases and Times
Here are the key stages of the total lunar eclipse, listed in Pacific Time (PT), Eastern Time (ET), and Atlantic Time (AT):
Penumbral Eclipse Begins: The moon starts to dim subtly.
8:57 p.m. PT | 11:57 p.m. ET | 12:57 a.m. AT
Partial Eclipse Begins: The Earth’s shadow starts covering the moon.
10:09 p.m. PT | 1:09 a.m. ET | 2:09 a.m. AT
Total Eclipse Begins: The moon turns red as it enters Earth’s full shadow.
11:25 p.m. PT | 2:25 a.m. ET | 3:25 a.m. AT
Maximum Eclipse: The peak of the blood moon phase.
11:59 p.m. PT | 2:59 a.m. ET | 3:59 a.m. AT
Total Eclipse Ends: The red hue begins to fade.
12:31 a.m. PT | 3:31 a.m. ET | 4:31 a.m. AT
Partial Eclipse Ends: The shadow starts to lift completely.
1:47 a.m. PT | 4:47 a.m. ET | 5:47 a.m. AT
Penumbral Eclipse Ends: The eclipse concludes.
3:00 a.m. PT | 6:00 a.m. ET | 7:00 a.m. AT
Viewing Tips for the Lunar Eclipse
Equipment: No telescopes, binoculars, or eclipse glasses are required.
The blood moon is visible to the naked eye.
Location: Find a spot with a clear view of the sky.
Urban areas work fine as long as tall buildings don’t obstruct your view.
Weather: Check local forecasts, as cloud cover could block the eclipse.
Why This Double Event Is So Special
Seeing the northern lights and a total lunar eclipse together is a rare occurrence.
The aurora borealis depends on solar activity, which can be unpredictable, while lunar eclipses follow a precise schedule.
The overlap of these two events on March 13-14, 2025, creates a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Canadians.
The contrast of the red blood moon against the green northern lights could make for a breathtaking visual spectacle, perfect for photography and memory-making.
How to Prepare for Tonight’s Sky Show
To make the most of this celestial double feature, preparation is key.
Here’s how to ensure a successful viewing experience:
1. Check the Weather
Clear skies are essential for both the northern lights and the lunar eclipse. Use a weather app or website to monitor conditions in your area.
If clouds are forecast, consider traveling to a nearby location with better weather.
2. Find a Dark Location
For the northern lights, light pollution can dim the display.
Seek out rural areas, national parks, or dark-sky preserves.
The lunar eclipse is less affected by light pollution, but a dark spot will enhance the overall experience.
3. Dress Warmly
March nights in Canada can be chilly, especially in northern regions.
Wear layers, bring blankets, and pack hand warmers to stay comfortable during late-night viewing.
4. Bring a Camera
While no special equipment is needed to enjoy the show, a camera with manual settings (e.g., long exposure, tripod) can capture stunning photos of both the aurora and the blood moon.
For the northern lights, use a wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8), high ISO (800-3200), and exposure times of 5-15 seconds.
For the lunar eclipse, adjust exposure based on the moon’s brightness, starting with a shorter exposure during totality.
5. Plan Your Timing
The northern lights could appear anytime after sunset, with peak intensity around midnight.
The lunar eclipse follows a set schedule, with totality occurring late at night (see times above). Plan to stay up late or set an alarm for the key phases.
Best Places in Canada for a Combined View
If you’re aiming to see both the northern lights and the blood moon, certain locations stand out due to their northern latitude, dark skies, and scenic surroundings.
Here are some top picks:
1. Churchill, Manitoba
Known for polar bears and auroras, Churchill offers a remote, dark-sky experience.
The flat tundra provides unobstructed views of both the northern horizon and the moon.
2. Banff National Park, Alberta
Stunning mountain landscapes pair beautifully with the aurora and blood moon.
Head to spots like Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake for minimal light pollution.
3. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Flat prairies make it easy to see the northern horizon and the entire sky.
Nearby parks like Wanuskewin Heritage Park offer dark, quiet viewing areas.
4. Thunder Bay, Ontario
Located on Lake Superior, this northern Ontario city has access to dark skies.
Try Sleeping Giant Provincial Park for a scenic backdrop.
5. Moosonee, Ontario
A remote northern community with little light pollution.
Ideal for aurora enthusiasts and eclipse watchers alike.
Fun Facts About the Northern Lights and Lunar Eclipses
Northern Lights Colors: While green is the most common color, auroras can also appear red, purple, or blue, depending on the type of gas particles involved.
Blood Moon Mythology: Many cultures associate the red moon with omens or significant events, though it’s a natural result of sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere.
Aurora Science: The northern lights are caused by solar wind particles hitting Earth’s magnetic field, exciting atmospheric gases.
Eclipse Frequency: Total lunar eclipses occur about once or twice a year, but seeing one with the northern lights is exceptionally rare.
How to Share Your Experience
Witnessing the northern lights and a blood moon is a moment worth sharing.
Here’s how to spread the word:
Social Media: Post photos and videos on platforms like X, Instagram, or TikTok with hashtags like #NorthernLights, #BloodMoon, #LunarEclipse2025, and #CanadaSky.
Photography Tips: Tag your location and timestamp your posts to help others track the event.
Community: Join astronomy groups or forums to share your observations and connect with fellow skywatcher
Tonight, March 13, 2025, Canada will witness an extraordinary celestial event: a total lunar eclipse alongside a potential northern lights display.
From the blood moon’s red glow to the aurora’s green shimmer, this double feature promises a night of wonder.
Whether you’re in Edmonton, Banff, Winnipeg, or along the view line in Vancouver or Quebec City, you have a chance to see this rare spectacle.
Prepare by checking the weather, finding a dark spot, and timing your viewing for the eclipse phases and aurora peak.
Don’t miss out—step outside, look up, and marvel at the beauty of the universe!
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