What Is Happening on March 3, 2026

On March 3, 2026, Earth will pass directly between the Sun and the Moon. This alignment causes a total lunar eclipse. During totality, the Moon will glow in deep red tones — a phenomenon often called a “blood moon.”

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth’s main shadow (the umbra) completely covers the Moon. At that time, sunlight cannot reach the lunar surface directly. Instead, light bends through Earth’s atmosphere and scatters. Shorter blue wavelengths scatter out, while red and orange wavelengths reach the Moon. That’s why it appears red.

When and How Long the Eclipse Lasts

The entire eclipse — from the first subtle shadow to the final phase — spans several hours. However, the total phase, when the Moon is fully within Earth’s umbra and most red, lasts about 58 minutes and 19 seconds.

Because the eclipse occurs while the Moon is full, you don’t need any special glasses to look at it. It is safe to view with your naked eyes at all times.

Where You Can See It

This eclipse will be visible from large parts of the world where the Moon is above the horizon at the right time. Observers in North America, eastern Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific will see most or all of the total eclipse.

Not everyone can see every phase. But on March 3, billions of people live in regions where at least part of the eclipse will be visible.

Why It’s Special

This will be the only total lunar eclipse in 2026 visible across wide regions until the next one on December 31, 2028–January 1, 2029.

Total lunar eclipses don’t happen every month because the Moon’s orbit is tilted. Only when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align precisely do we get the deep red glow of totality.

How to Watch

• Look skyward when the Moon rises where you live.

• Check local times for totality (varies by location).

• No eclipse glasses needed. Even basic binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the view, but your eyes are fine on their own.

A total lunar eclipse is a unique chance to see Earth’s shadow on the Moon. On March 3, 2026, this cosmic alignment will create a red Moon that many people around the world can enjoy.