Total Lunar Eclipse to Grace Skies on March 3, 2026
A total lunar eclipse, known as a 'blood moon,' will occur on March 3, 2026, visible across parts of the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.
On March 3, 2026, a total lunar eclipse will be visible across parts of the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. This event occurs when Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that gives the Moon a reddish hue, commonly referred to as a 'blood moon.'
The eclipse will begin at 3:44 a.m. EST (08:44 UTC) with the penumbral phase, followed by the partial phase at 4:50 a.m. EST (09:50 UTC). Totality, when the Moon is entirely within Earth's umbral shadow, will start at 6:04 a.m. EST (11:04 UTC) and last for approximately 58 minutes. The entire eclipse, including all phases, will conclude by 9:23 a.m. EST (14:23 UTC).
Visibility will vary by location. In the United States, observers west of the Mississippi River, including those in California, Oregon, and Washington, will have the opportunity to witness the entire eclipse. In contrast, viewers in the Eastern time zone will see the beginning of totality before the Moon sets.
Approximately 2.5 billion people, or about 31% of the global population, will have the chance to observe the total phase of the eclipse, weather permitting.
No special equipment is required to view the eclipse, but using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience. Observers are advised to find a dark location away from bright lights and to check local weather forecasts for optimal viewing conditions.