A ‘blood moon’ total lunar eclipse is coming—here’s when to watch
Here’s who will have the best views—and what gives the moon its eerie red tint.
This week, skywatchers across North America will see the full moon slip into Earth’s shadow, transforming into a deep reddish hue. The event begins at 6:04 a.m. on March 3 in the eastern U.S. and Canada, while those in the western half of the continent will see it unfold at 3:04 a.m. Here’s what causes this phenomenon and when and where to watch.
What happens during a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that gradually darkens the lunar surface.
The most striking phase—when the moon takes on a deep orange or red color—earns it the nickname “blood moon.” This happens because sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light (blues and greens) while allowing longer, red wavelengths to reach the moon. It’s the same effect that makes sunsets look red.
(Learn more about the three types of lunar eclipse and what causes them.)
The exact shade of red we see, however, depends on atmospheric conditions. A clear atmosphere produces a brighter, coppery moon, while the increased density of atmospheric particles makes it appear darker and redder. For this eclipse, predictions suggest relatively clean atmospheric conditions, meaning the moon may glow a brighter orange-red.
Where and when to see the eclipse?
The total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will unfold over six hours, offering skywatchers a changing view as the moon moves through Earth’s shadow. The most dramatic phase—the total eclipse—will last 59 minutes, giving plenty of time to witness the moon’s eerie transformation into a deep red.
(Nine night sky events to see in March.)
The total lunar eclipse will be visible across North America, Central America, western South America, Australia, New Zealand, and eastern Asia. For skywatchers in North America, the eclipse will begin early on the morning of March 3.
The most dramatic phase of the eclipse—the moment when the moon is fully engulfed in Earth’s shadow—begins at 11:04 UTC (6:04 a.m. EST, 3:04 a.m. PST). At this point, the moon will glow in deep shades of red, copper, or orange, creating a striking celestial display.
How to capture the eclipse?
The best way to enjoy the eclipse is to step outside, find a spot with an unobstructed view of the sky, and watch as the moon slowly changes color. Unlike a solar eclipse, no special glasses are required.
For those wanting to capture the moment, a smartphone on a tripod can do wonders. Lower your camera’s exposure to prevent the moon’s bright surface from becoming overexposed.
If you have binoculars or a telescope, use them to see finer details of the lunar surface as it darkens and turns red.
During totality, the sky around the moon will darken enough to reveal stars that are usually washed out by moonlight. Look closely, and you may spot Spica, a bright blue star 250 light-years away, and Regulus, located 78 light-years from Earth.
When is the next total lunar eclipse?
If you miss this one, don’t worry! There’s another chance later in the year. The next partial lunar eclipse will occur on August 27-28, 2026, but it will be visible primarily across North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Western Asia. Skywatchers will have to wait until New Year's Eve 2028-2029 for the next total lunar eclipse visible in their region.
