A total lunar eclipse, also known as a “blood moon,” is set to occur on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The event will be visible in its entirety across western North America, with the best views in areas such as the southwestern U.S., northwest Mexico, and inland Australia. This will be the only total lunar eclipse of the year, and the last one until December 31, 2028.
A total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, causing Earth’s shadow to completely cover the moon. During this process, the moon gradually dims, and at totality, it will glow red, creating the stunning “blood moon” effect. This is a completely safe event to watch with the naked eye.
What makes this lunar eclipse special is the totality phase, which will last for 58 minutes and 18 seconds. While it won’t be as deep as some past eclipses, it will still offer a striking sight, especially for those in the western U.S. and other areas with clear skies in March.
Approximately 2.5 billion people, or about 31% of the global population, will have the opportunity to witness the red moon during totality. The exact timing for the totality phase will vary depending on your location:
* Eastern U.S. (EST): 6:04-7:02 a.m.
* Central U.S. (CST): 5:04-6:02 a.m.
* Mountain U.S. (MST): 4:04-5:02 a.m.
* Pacific U.S. (PST): 3:04-4:02 a.m.
* Alaska (AKST): 2:04-3:02 a.m.
* Hawaii (HST): 1:04-2:02 a.m.
Those in the western U.S. and Canada will have the best views of the eclipse, as the moon will be high in the sky during totality. However, eastern U.S. viewers will need an unobstructed western horizon as the moon sets during the eclipse.
The reddish glow during a total lunar eclipse is caused by Rayleigh scattering, which filters sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere. This bends longer-wavelength red light toward the moon, casting the characteristic red hue. The intensity of the color can vary depending on atmospheric conditions such as dust or water vapor.
Mark your calendars and get ready for this rare celestial event. Wishing you clear skies and an unforgettable viewing experience!
