Total Lunar Eclipse to Grace Skies on March 3, 2026

A total lunar eclipse is set to occur on March 3, 2026, offering a celestial spectacle as the Moon takes on a reddish-orange hue during totality. This event will be visible across North and Central America, parts of South America, Asia, and Australia.

The eclipse will unfold in several phases. The penumbral eclipse begins at 2:44 a.m. MST, followed by the partial eclipse at 3:50 a.m. MST. Totality, when the Moon is fully immersed in Earth's shadow, starts at 4:04 a.m. MST and lasts until 5:02 a.m. MST. The partial eclipse concludes at 6:17 a.m. MST, with the penumbral phase ending at 7:23 a.m. MST.

The "blood moon" effect occurs because Earth's atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light, such as blue, while allowing longer wavelengths, like red, to pass through. This filtered sunlight casts a red glow onto the Moon's surface during the eclipse.

Weather conditions will influence visibility. In Salt Lake City, Utah, the forecast predicts cloudy skies during the early morning hours of March 3, which may hinder viewing. Conversely, southern Utah is expected to have clear skies, providing better viewing opportunities.

Observers do not need special equipment to view the eclipse, though finding a dark location away from city lights is recommended for the clearest view.

For those unable to witness the event in person, Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles will host a live online broadcast of the total lunar eclipse from 12:37 a.m. to 6:25 a.m. PST on March 3, weather permitting.

Lunar eclipses typically occur two to three times a year. If this event is missed, the next total lunar eclipse visible in the Americas will occur in March 2026.