Maldivians witnessed a rare celestial event on Tuesday night as the Moon turned a vivid red during a total lunar eclipse, widely known as the “Blood Moon.”

The eclipse began at 8:20 p.m. local time and reached totality at 11:12 p.m., when the Earth aligned perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. The phenomenon was clearly visible across the country without telescopes, drawing many residents outdoors to capture the striking scene.

In line with Islamic tradition, Salat al-Khusuf (eclipse prayers) were performed in mosques across all inhabited islands at 11:12 p.m. Scholars reminded worshippers that eclipses are a sign of Allah (SWT) and not linked to the birth or death of any individual — echoing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who urged believers to pray and seek forgiveness during such events.

Astronomers note that the next total lunar eclipse visible from the Maldives will occur on 31 December 2028.