Total Lunar Eclipse to Illuminate Manitoba Skies on March 3

Residents of Manitoba will have the opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse in the early hours of March 3, 2026. This event, often referred to as a "blood moon" due to the reddish hue the Moon takes on during totality, will be visible across the province.

The eclipse will commence with the penumbral phase at approximately 2:44 a.m. CST, followed by the partial eclipse beginning at 3:50 a.m. CST. Totality, when the Moon is entirely within Earth's umbra and appears red, will occur from 5:04 a.m. to 6:02 a.m. CST. The eclipse will conclude with the Moon exiting the umbra at 7:17 a.m. CST.

Scott Young, planetarium astronomer at the Manitoba Museum, advises, "You should stay up late on Monday, March 2 – after midnight, or get up really early on Tuesday, March 3." He emphasizes that lunar eclipses are accessible events, as they are visible to the entire half of the Earth that can see the Moon.

Observers are encouraged to find dark locations away from city lights to enhance visibility. No special equipment is necessary to view the eclipse, though binoculars or a telescope can provide a more detailed experience.

This will be the only total lunar eclipse visible in Manitoba until December 31, 2028, making it a noteworthy event for skywatchers in the region.