Background
Total lunar eclipses occur every 18 months to three years. The upcoming event on March 3, 2026, will be a significant occurrence, as it will be the last total lunar eclipse visible for nearly three years.
Breaking Event
A total lunar eclipse and blood moon will be visible in every state on March 3, 2026. The total lunar eclipse will begin at 6:04 A.M. EST and will last for about one hour before transitioning to a partial eclipse again. The partial eclipse begins at 4:50 A.M. EST and ends at 8:17 A.M. EST.
Reaction
Observers in New York and Washington DC will see the eclipse starting at 3:44 A.M. and ending around 6:30 A.M.. In Australia, the blood moon will be visible starting at 10:04 P.M. local time, while in New Zealand, it will be visible shortly after midnight on March 3, 2026.
Dr. Rebecca Allen noted, “Any light that does pass shines through our atmosphere and transforms the lunar surface into a deep, coppery red.” Similarly, Dr. Brad Tucker explained, “Just as a sunset or sunrise can be pink or red, this light is also refracted and so lights up the moon in an orange-red colour.”
Prof. Richard Easther expressed excitement for the event, stating, “As an astronomer, I am excited by anything that encourages people to ‘look up’ and experience the night sky for themselves.” The blood moon will also be visible in parts of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific.
Outlook
The next total lunar eclipse visible in North America will not occur until June 2029, making this event particularly noteworthy for sky watchers. The blood moon will appear red due to Earth’s atmosphere refracting sunlight, creating a stunning visual for those fortunate enough to witness it.
