Rare ‘blood moon’ total lunar eclipse to loom over North America, Australia and New Zealand

The Guardian World

by Ima Caldwell

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A rare total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “blood moon,” will occur on Tuesday, March 3, treating skywatchers in North America, Australia, and New Zealand to a stunning celestial event. During this phenomenon, the full moon will pass through Earth’s shadow, transforming its bright white glow into a deep, coppery-red hue. Dr. Rebecca Allen, an astrophysicist at Swinburne University, explains that this dramatic color change is due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth’s atmosphere, casting a reddish tint on the moon. The eclipse will be visible at different times across the regions, with varying start and end times depending on location. For example, in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, and Hobart, the event will begin at 10:04 p.m. local time and conclude at 11:02 p.m. Meanwhile, viewers in New York and Washington D.C. can expect the eclipse to start at 3:44 a.m. and end around 6:30 a.m., offering early risers an unforgettable astronomical display. This total lunar eclipse is particularly special because it offers a unique opportunity for observers in certain areas to witness the entire event, from the moon’s entry into Earth’s shadow to its complete emergence afterward. For those in North America, cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles will see the eclipse begin shortly after midnight, while residents of Tokyo and Beijing can view it later in the evening. The blood moon phenomenon has both scientific and cultural significance. It is a rare event that aligns celestial mechanics with human observation, making it a fascinating occurrence for astronomy enthusiasts. For those interested in world events, this eclipse serves as a reminder of the natural wonders that continue to captivate humanity across borders and cultures. Whether

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 3/2/2026