March 3, 2026, Total Lunar Eclipse

Get ready for a breathtaking celestial event! On March 3, 2026, skywatchers across large portions of the globe will be treated to a total lunar eclipse—the first since 2025 and the last we’ll see until 2028. During totality, the Moon will take on a dramatic, deep red hue as it slips fully into Earth’s shadow.

Whether you’re an avid eclipse chaser or a casual observer preparing for your very first one, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy this spectacular night‑sky show.

What’s happening?

A total lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes directly between the Sun and a full Moon, casting its dark central shadow, the umbra, across the lunar surface. Although sunlight refracting through Earth’s atmosphere often gives the eclipsed Moon its signature deep red glow, that color isn’t guaranteed. Atmospheric conditions such as volcanic ash, dust, smoke, or pollution can filter different wavelengths of light, sometimes making the Moon appear dimmer, browner, or even gray instead of red.

Why is this eclipse special?

This eclipse aligns with the Full Worm Moon, the time of year when earthworms begin to emerge as the ground thaws, a traditional marker of early spring. Totality will last nearly an hour as the Moon passes through Earth’s umbra, giving skywatchers plenty of time to enjoy this rare and beautiful spectacle.

Best of all, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view. Unlike solar eclipses, no special eye protection is needed. Just step outside, look up, and enjoy the show. And if you have binoculars or a telescope, they’ll make an already stunning sight even more impressive.

Stages of a Total Lunar Eclipse

• Penumbral eclipse begins (First Contact): The Moon enters the Earth’s lighter shadow. The lunar eclipse begins. Because this stage is subtle, most people won’t notice a change.
• Partial eclipse begins (Second Contact): Earth’s dark umbra begins to cover the Moon, making the eclipse more noticeable.
• Total eclipse begins (Third Contact): The Moon moves entirely inside the Earth’s umbra. Depending on atmospheric conditions, the Moon can take on different colors.
• Maximum eclipse (Peak Stage): The Moon moves as far into the umbra as possible.
• Total eclipse ends (Fourth Contact): Earth’s umbra moves away from the Moon’s outer limb. The Moon slowly begins to reemerge and light up.
• Partial eclipse ends (Fifth Contact): Earth’s umbra completely leaves the Moon’s surface.
• Penumbral eclipse ends (Sixth Contact): The Moon leaves the Earth’s lighter shadow. The lunar eclipse ends.

When to Watch: Key Eclipse Times

Where the Eclipse Will Be Visible

The March 3 lunar eclipse is widely visible across the globe, including:

• North America
• Most of South America
• Australia & New Zealand
• East Asia & Southeast Asia
• Pacific regions
• Most of Russia

Unfortunately, Europe and Africa will miss the show. At the time of the eclipse, these regions are on the daytime side of Earth, so the Moon is below the horizon and therefore the eclipse will not be visible.

Visibility will vary by region: most of North America, Australia, New Zealand, and East Asia will see the full total eclipse, while other regions will see only the partial phases.

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Bundle up, set your alarm clocks, and share one of Mother Nature’s most majestic events with your family and friends. Watch in awe as the Earth’s shadow slowly creeps upon the Moon, taking “bites” and growing deeper until the dark umbra takes on new colorful shades, as if someone has dimmed the moonlight. Think of what the ancient astronomers must have felt as you gaze upon the eclipsed Moon, only to breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the Moon will return to normal after passing through Earth’s shadow in its journey around the Earth.

Clear skies and happy lunar eclipse viewing!