Skywatchers across the United States will have a prime opportunity to witness a striking total lunar eclipse — commonly known as a "blood moon" — in the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, as Earth's shadow fully engulfs the full moon, bathing it in a coppery red hue.

Blood moon
Blood moon

This event marks the only total lunar eclipse of 2026 visible from North America and the last such spectacle until late 2028, according to NASA and astronomy resources like timeanddate.com. The eclipse unfolds overnight from March 2 into March 3, with visibility varying by time zone and location. Western states offer the most complete views, while eastern observers may see only the early stages before moonset.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the sun, Earth and moon align precisely, with Earth positioned between the two. Sunlight refracts through Earth's atmosphere, filtering out blue wavelengths and leaving reds and oranges to illuminate the moon — the same process that creates colorful sunsets. The result is the moon's dramatic transformation from bright white to deep reddish-brown during totality.

The eclipse begins with the penumbral phase at 8:44 UTC (3:44 a.m. EST / 12:44 a.m. PST), when the moon enters Earth's faint outer shadow. This subtle dimming is often hard to notice without careful observation.

The partial phase starts at 9:50 UTC (4:50 a.m. EST / 1:50 a.m. PST), as Earth's darker umbral shadow begins covering the moon, creating the appearance of a bite taken from its edge.

Totality — the highlight — commences at 11:04 UTC (6:04 a.m. EST / 3:04 a.m. PST) and lasts 58 minutes and 19 seconds until 12:03 UTC (7:03 a.m. EST / 4:03 a.m. PST). Greatest eclipse occurs at 11:33 UTC (6:33 a.m. EST / 3:33 a.m. PST), when the moon reaches maximum immersion and its red color peaks.

The partial phase ends at 13:17 UTC (8:17 a.m. EST / 5:17 a.m. PST), followed by the penumbral phase concluding at 14:23 UTC (9:23 a.m. EST / 6:23 a.m. PST). The entire event spans about 5 hours and 39 minutes.

Visibility differs significantly across the country. In the Eastern time zone, totality begins around 6:04 a.m. EST, but the moon sets shortly after or during the phase in many areas, limiting views to partial eclipse or early totality. For example, in New York City, the moon sets around sunrise, meaning observers catch the start but miss the deepest red phase.

Central and Mountain time zones fare better, with the moon higher in the pre-dawn sky. In Denver (Mountain time), totality runs from roughly 4:04 a.m. to 5:02 a.m. MST, allowing a full view of the blood moon hanging in the west.

Western states, including Pacific time, offer optimal conditions. In Los Angeles or San Francisco, totality occurs from 3:04 a.m. to 4:02 a.m. PST, with the moon well above the horizon before dawn. Hawaii sees it even earlier, from about 1:04 a.m. to 2:02 a.m. HST, during the night.

NASA emphasizes that no special equipment is required — the eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope. A tripod-mounted camera with long exposures can capture stunning images of the reddened moon against stars.

Weather remains the primary variable. Clear skies are essential, and forecasters urge checking local conditions closer to the date. Light pollution can diminish the view in cities, so darker rural or suburban spots enhance the experience.

The moon will appear in the constellation Leo during the eclipse. Interestingly, it will occult the galaxy NGC 3423 as seen from North America, adding an extra layer of interest for telescope users.

This eclipse follows a series of recent lunar events but stands out as the last total one visible from the U.S. for nearly three years. The next total lunar eclipse arrives Dec. 31, 2028–Jan. 1, 2029, coinciding with New Year's celebrations.

Astronomy enthusiasts recommend arriving early to set up viewing spots. Popular locations include dark-sky parks, national forests or open fields away from city lights. In the West, places like Death Valley, Joshua Tree or remote deserts promise excellent horizons and minimal interference.

For those unable to view in person, live streams from NASA, timeanddate.com and observatories will broadcast the event globally. Virtual participation allows anyone to witness the phenomenon regardless of location or weather.

Experts note the moon's size appears near average, as the eclipse occurs about a week after perigee (closest approach to Earth on Feb. 24) and before apogee.

As March 3 approaches, excitement builds among stargazers. The blood moon offers a rare, free celestial show — a reminder of the dynamic dance between Earth, moon and sun. With proper planning and a bit of luck on the weather, millions across the U.S. can experience this awe-inspiring event firsthand.

Whether observing from a backyard or a mountaintop, the total lunar eclipse promises a memorable pre-dawn spectacle, turning the night sky into a canvas of cosmic wonder.