Blood Moon to Dazzle Skywatchers Across the US

Western states will have the best views of the total lunar eclipse on March 3.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A total lunar eclipse, known as a 'blood moon', will be visible across parts of the United States on Tuesday, March 3. The event occurs when the Earth moves directly between the sun and moon, casting the moon in a deep red or copper color. Visibility will depend on location, with the Western US expected to have the best viewing conditions as the moon passes through the darkest part of Earth's shadow.

Why it matters

Total lunar eclipses are relatively rare, with the next one not expected to be visible from the US until 2029. This celestial event provides a unique opportunity for stargazers across the country to witness the moon's dramatic transformation.

The details

During a total lunar eclipse, the moon passes through different stages of Earth's shadow. It first enters the penumbra, where dimming is subtle, then moves into the umbra where the shadow becomes darker. When the moon is fully inside the umbra, it takes on a red or copper appearance, giving rise to the term 'blood moon'. The red color is caused by Earth's atmosphere scattering shorter wavelengths of light and allowing longer wavelengths, like reds and oranges, to continue through and be bent towards the moon.

  • The eclipse will begin at 3:43 a.m. EST with the penumbral phase.
  • Totality, when the moon appears deepest red, will occur between 6:03 a.m. and 7:02 a.m. EST.
  • The eclipse will end at 9:23 a.m. EST.

The players

Earth

The planet that casts its shadow on the moon during a total lunar eclipse.

Sun

The star that provides the light that is scattered by Earth's atmosphere and bent towards the moon, creating the red 'blood moon' appearance.

Moon

The celestial body that passes through Earth's shadow, taking on a dramatic red hue during a total lunar eclipse.

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What’s next

Stargazers across the US, especially in the Western states, will be able to witness the full totality of the blood moon on March 3. This may be the last chance to see a total lunar eclipse with strong visibility from the US until 2029.

The takeaway

Total lunar eclipses are rare and awe-inspiring celestial events that allow skywatchers to witness the moon's transformation. This upcoming blood moon on March 3 provides a unique opportunity for Americans, especially those in the West, to experience the dramatic red hue of the moon as it passes through Earth's shadow.