Total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026: How to watch the ‘Blood Moon’, when and where it will be visible, and more information
Times of India
by TOI SCIENCE DESKFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A rare celestial spectacle known as the "Blood Moon" will grace the skies on March 3, 2026, offering astronomy enthusiasts a thrilling event. This total lunar eclipse, where the moon turns a dramatic reddish hue, will be visible from vast regions across Asia, Australia, North America, and parts of South America. Unlike solar eclipses, viewing this phenomenon is safe without special eyewear, making it accessible to millions. The Blood Moon occurs when Earth's shadow completely covers the moon during totality, casting a crimson glow due to sunlight filtering through Earth's atmosphere. This effect, akin to a sunset, is why the moon appears red during the eclipse.
The event begins as the moon enters Earth's penumbral shadow, causing a gradual dimming. As it moves into the umbra—the darkest part of the shadow—totality commences, blanketing the moon in a striking red or coppery light. This occurs because shorter blue wavelengths are scattered by Earth's atmosphere, while longer red wavelengths reach the moon's surface. The phenomenon is a result of the Sun-Earth-Moon alignment and can be observed wherever the moon is visible during that time.
For those eager to witness this natural wonder, no special equipment is needed to view the eclipse with the naked eye. However, using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience by revealing intricate details on the lunar surface before, during, and after totality. The March 3 event marks the only total lunar eclipse in 2026 and will not be seen again until late 2028, making it a unique opportunity for stargazers.
This Blood Moon holds significance for its rarity and beauty, appealing to both amateur astronomers and casual observers. NASA's visualizations provide insights into how Earth's shadow moves across the moon during the eclipse, helping enthusiasts plan their viewing locations and times. The event
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026