Some of the display’s visuals are too sensitive to be left up all the time.
With great pleasure, Buckingham Palace announces the release of an astounding array of never-before-seen images from the royal archives.
The unique exhibition “Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography” at The King’s Gallery inside Buckingham Palace is scheduled to debut on May 17 and will highlight the development of royal portrait photography from the 1920s to the present. More than 150 one-of-a-kind pieces from the Royal Collection and Royal Archives will be on show, with many of these old prints appearing for the first time. A unique look into the creative processes behind these historical photos is provided by the show, which also features unseen proofs and archival correspondence.
A poignant 1964 portrait of Queen Elizabeth, Princess Margaret, Princess Alexandra, and the then-Duchess of Kent holding their babies is one of the most notable items. This heartwarming photo was taken by Princess Margaret’s husband, Antony Armstrong-Jones, as a special thank-you to royal obstetrician Sir John Peel, who assisted in the delivery of all four babies in less than two months. Princess Margaret is holding her daughter Lady Sarah tenderly while Queen Elizabeth is grinning at the camera and holding Prince Edward, the youngest of her four children.
Snowdon, the Royal Collection Trust, and Camera Press
Images of Queen Elizabeth’s parents, King George VI and the Queen Mother, taken during World War II make up another moving section of the display. Cecil Beaton captured these pictures with the intention of bringing stability and hope during tumultuous times. Notable images of the royal couple taken in 1940 at Buckingham Palace include a dramatic view of them assessing bomb damage and a sweet family photo taken in 1943 at Royal Lodge in Windsor, which shows Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret as little children gathered around their father’s desk.
Snowdon, the Royal Collection Trust, and Camera Press
The thrill and exclusivity of this event is further enhanced by the fact that the Royal Collection Trust emphasizes that these vintage photos cannot be permanently shown due to conservation needs. The display covers an amazing range of historical periods, including the first color image of a member of the royal family, Queen Elizabeth’s 1953 coronation portrait, the Queen’s sparkling painting by Andy Warhol from 1985, and even Kate Middleton’s arresting 40th birthday shot.
It’s interesting to note that Kate’s milestone birthday portrait will be on display next to a portrait of Princess Alexandra from 1864, which it looks a lot like.
Charles III, His Majesty, Royal Collection Trust, 2024
The audio guide for this fascinating exhibit, which is narrated by the adored Dame Joanna Lumley, includes commentary from well-known photographers Rankin and John Swannell. Hugo Burnand has also contributed to the guide; he has a long-standing professional relationship with King Charles and Queen Camilla, having taken their formal coronation photographs in May 2023.
Paolo Reversi/Royal Collection Trust Photographer
Exhibiting photographs by renowned photographers including David Bailey, Annie Leibovitz, Polly Borland, and Dorothy Wilding, this show is sure to thrill royal photography enthusiasts.
Remember to put dates in your calendars! The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace will unveil “Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography” on May 17. This is a unique chance to experience history unfold before your eyes as a unique collection of royal moments are captured via the skill of photography.
Charles III, His Majesty, Royal Collection Trust, 2024
A Rare and Stunning Sight Awaits
Skywatchers, get ready! On the night of March 14-15, 2025, a total lunar eclipse will grace the skies, offering a breathtaking celestial spectacle. For approximately 65 minutes, the Moon will transition from its usual bright white glow to a dramatic deep red or brown hue, creating a mesmerizing sight known as the Blood Moon.
If you’re fascinated by astronomy or simply love witnessing nature’s wonders, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re planning to observe it with the naked eye, through a telescope, or capture stunning photographs, this guide will provide all the essential details you need.
What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that completely covers the Moon. Unlike a solar eclipse, which requires protective eyewear, a lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to view with the naked eye.
During this event, the Earth’s atmosphere filters sunlight, allowing only longer-wavelength red and orange light to reach the Moon. This is what gives the Moon its eerie red or brown appearance, often referred to as a Blood Moon.
When and Where Can You See It?
The total lunar eclipse will be visible from various parts of the world, but some regions will experience a better view than others. Here’s what you need to know:
- Best viewing locations: North America, South America, parts of Europe, and western Africa will get the best views of the full eclipse.
- Partial visibility: Some areas in Asia and eastern Africa will see only a partial eclipse.
- Total eclipse duration: Approximately 65 minutes of complete totality.
- Eclipse phases: The entire event, from the penumbral phase to the total eclipse and back, will last about three hours.
Video : Total Lunar Eclipse 2025: Will the Stunning Blood Moon Grace Your Skies?
If you’re in an area where visibility is limited due to weather conditions or location, don’t worry! Many astronomy organizations and space agencies will offer live-streams of the event.
What Causes the Blood Moon Effect?
One of the most fascinating aspects of a total lunar eclipse is the Blood Moon phenomenon. But why does the Moon turn red instead of disappearing completely?
This happens due to a process called Rayleigh scattering, the same mechanism responsible for red sunsets and sunrises. When the Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon, some of the Sun’s light bends through the Earth’s atmosphere. The shorter wavelengths (blue and violet) scatter, while the longer red and orange wavelengths pass through and illuminate the Moon.
Depending on atmospheric conditions, the Moon can appear in shades ranging from deep red to copper or brown. If there are dust or volcanic particles in the atmosphere, the eclipse could take on an even darker hue.
How to Watch the Total Lunar Eclipse
Viewing a total lunar eclipse is easy and requires no special equipment. However, for the best experience, consider these tips:
- Find a dark location: The farther you are from city lights, the clearer your view will be.
- Check the weather: Cloudy skies can block your view, so make sure to check local forecasts.
- Use binoculars or a telescope: While the eclipse is visible to the naked eye, magnification enhances details like craters and surface textures.
- Capture the moment: If you love photography, use a DSLR camera with a tripod to get sharp images of the Moon’s color changes.
- Bring friends and family: Viewing an eclipse is a magical experience—share it with others!
Why This Lunar Eclipse Is Special
Not all lunar eclipses are created equal. Some are penumbral (where the Moon only passes through Earth’s outer shadow), while others are partial (where only part of the Moon is covered).
However, this event on March 14-15, 2025, is a total lunar eclipse, meaning the Moon will be completely engulfed by Earth’s shadow, creating an intense and dramatic visual effect.
Additionally, this eclipse comes at a time when interest in space and astronomy is at an all-time high, with upcoming missions to the Moon and Mars capturing global attention.
The Cultural and Historical Significance of Lunar Eclipses
Throughout history, lunar eclipses have been seen as mystical and sometimes ominous events. In ancient civilizations:
- The Incas believed a lunar eclipse occurred when a jaguar attacked the Moon.
- The Chinese thought a giant celestial dragon was devouring the Moon and would make loud noises to scare it away.
- Many Native American tribes viewed the event as a sign of change or transformation.
Today, lunar eclipses are understood scientifically, but they still inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Video : Total Lunar Eclipse Blood Moon 14 March 2025 Your Horoscope with Gregory Scott
The Next Total Lunar Eclipses After March 2025
If you miss this one, don’t worry—there are more lunar eclipses coming in the future. The next total lunar eclipses will occur on:
- March 3, 2026
- December 31, 2028
- December 20, 2029
However, the March 2025 eclipse will be one of the longest and most visible in recent years, making it a must-watch event.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss This Celestial Event!
The March 14-15, 2025, total lunar eclipse is a rare and breathtaking natural event that reminds us of the beauty of our universe. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just someone who enjoys witnessing celestial wonders, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Mark your calendars, find a good viewing spot, and prepare to watch the Moon turn a stunning shade of red as it aligns perfectly with the Earth and Sun.
Are you excited for the eclipse? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know where you’ll be watching from! Also, don’t forget to share this article with fellow space lovers so they can witness this incredible event, too.
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