Stunning 'Blood Moon' Eclipse Captivates Millions Worldwide

Rare total lunar eclipse dazzles skywatchers across North America, Australia and Asia

Mar. 3, 2026 at 5:35pm

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A breathtaking 'blood moon' total lunar eclipse was visible to millions of people around the world in the early hours of March 3, 2026. The eclipse, which lasted nearly 6 hours, turned the moon a striking reddish hue as it passed through the darkest part of Earth's shadow. Skywatchers across North America, Australia, and eastern Asia were treated to the spectacular celestial event, with stunning images captured from locations like Los Angeles, Mexico City, and the Philippines.

Why it matters

Total lunar eclipses, also known as 'blood moons', are relatively rare occurrences that captivate stargazers worldwide. This particular eclipse was the last one visible from North America until 2029, making it a must-see event for many astronomy enthusiasts. The striking red color of the moon during totality is caused by the refraction of sunlight through Earth's atmosphere, providing a unique and awe-inspiring sight.

The details

The eclipse began late at night for most North American viewers, with the total eclipse phase lasting about an hour. Those on the East Coast had a brief window to see the moon turn red just before it set below the horizon. Skywatchers in the central and western U.S. timezones had better visibility, while viewers in Australia, New Zealand, and eastern Asia also enjoyed excellent views of the celestial event. The reddish hue of the 'blood moon' is caused by Rayleigh scattering, which filters out shorter, bluer wavelengths of sunlight and allows the longer, redder wavelengths to reach the moon's surface.

  • The eclipse began late at night on March 3, 2026 for most North American viewers.
  • The total eclipse phase, where the moon passed through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, lasted about an hour.
  • Viewers on the East Coast had a slim chance to see the moon turn red just before it set below the horizon around 6-7 a.m. EST.
  • Skywatchers in the central and western U.S. timezones had better visibility of the full eclipse.
  • Viewers in Australia, New Zealand, and eastern Asia also enjoyed excellent views of the celestial event.

The players

Frederic J. Brown

A photographer who captured the blood moon in partial shadow toward the end of the eclipse in Los Angeles, California.

Ted Aljibe

A photographer who snapped the blood moon rising over Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The next total lunar eclipse visible over North America is coming June 26, 2029.

The takeaway

This stunning 'blood moon' eclipse captivated millions around the world, providing a rare and awe-inspiring celestial spectacle that won't be seen again from North America for several more years. The striking red hue of the moon during totality is a result of the Earth's atmosphere filtering sunlight, creating a mesmerizing visual that left stargazers in wonder.