A lunar eclipse will turn the moon ‘blood red.’ Here’s how and when to watch.
A celestial event will change the appearance of the moon this week, but if you’re in the United States, you’ll have to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to see it.
On Tuesday, March 3, a total lunar eclipse will create a “blood moon” – a moon that will appear red as it slips into Earth’s shadow. This happens when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that filters the sunlight. This will be the last blood moon until New Year’s Eve in 2028.
Atmospheric conditions will affect the moon’s red color, according to National Geographic. Clear skies, as currently forecast, will make the moon brighter and copperier. More atmospheric particles can make the moon appear dimmer and dimmer.
Unlike a solar eclipse, which requires glasses or special equipment to view it safely, you can watch a lunar eclipse directly with the naked eye. Here’s how to make sure you catch it.
Where can I see the lunar eclipse blood moon?
According to NASA, the total lunar eclipse will be fully visible in East Asia, Australia and the Pacific, as well as in the early morning hours in North and Central America and western South America. Central Asia and much of South America will only see a partial eclipse, while Africa and Europe will not be able to see it at all.
Astronomers in western North America, Australia and the Pacific region will have the best opportunity to see it, according to Space.com. In the eastern United States, viewers will be able to see the total eclipse. However, the moon will be very low in the sky, meaning the all-red phase could end as the moon disappears below the horizon.
When will I be able to see the blood moon?
You will be able to see the entire eclipse starting at 4:50 a.m. ET on March 3. This is when the Earth’s shadow begins to move across the Moon. The moon is expected to appear red a little over an hour later, around 6:04 a.m. ET, with the Blood Moon peaking at its deepest red around 6:33 a.m. ET. The moon should appear red until just before 7 a.m. ET.
What do I need to know about viewing the event?
Although you can technically view the eclipse from your vantage point, you also need to consider the weather: Cloudy skies can make it difficult to capture the moon. Check the forecast before heading out and consider a backup spot if your first choice of location is cloudy.
You can also bring a pair of binoculars or even a telescope to get a clearer view of the moon. Want to capture it with a camera? If you’re using your phone, reduce your camera’s exposure to get the best snapshot.
When will the next lunar eclipse take place?
We had two total lunar eclipses in 2025: one on March 13 and 14 and one on September 7 and 8.
While the next total lunar eclipse won’t occur until New Year’s Eve 2028, the next partial lunar eclipse will occur August 27-28.
