First lunar eclipse of 2026 witnessed worldwide including Pakistan

The first total lunar eclipse of 2026 was visible across large parts of the world on Tuesday night, with skywatchers in Pakistan also observing the celestial spectacle.

In Pakistan, the penumbral phase began at 1:44 pm, followed by the partial eclipse at 2:50 pm. Totality started at 4:05 pm, and by 4:34 pm the moon was fully immersed in the Earth’s shadow.

The eclipse gradually moved out of totality at 5:03 pm, while the partial phase ended at 6:17 pm. The event concluded completely at 7:23 pm.

Although much of the eclipse unfolded during daylight hours in certain regions, observers in several Pakistani cities were still able to witness portions of the phenomenon as the moon appeared on the horizon.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth positions itself between the sun and the moon, blocking direct sunlight and casting a shadow on the lunar surface. This alignment often gives the moon a deep reddish hue, a sight commonly referred to as a Blood Moon.

In addition to the eclipse, astronomers have pointed to other notable sky events this month. A close alignment of Venus and Saturn is expected on March 8, offering stargazers a chance to see the two planets appear side by side.

The vernal equinox will follow on March 20, marking the point when day and night are nearly equal in length and signaling the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.