Rare Total Lunar Eclipse Visible Across US on March 3

East coast viewers will only see the eclipse for 20-30 minutes before moonset.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:23am

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A total lunar eclipse will be visible across much of the United States on Tuesday, March 3. The eclipse will be fully visible in cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Denver, and Chicago, but east coast viewers will only be able to see it for 20-30 minutes before the moon sets.

Why it matters

Lunar eclipses are relatively rare, with the next total lunar eclipse not occurring until 2029. This event provides a unique opportunity for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts across the country to witness this celestial phenomenon.

The details

The total lunar eclipse on March 3 will occur when the moon passes directly through the Earth's shadow, causing the moon to appear red or dark brown in color. The eclipse will begin at 10:34 PM UTC and reach totality at 11:41 PM UTC, lasting for about an hour and 20 minutes.

  • The eclipse will begin at 10:34 PM UTC on March 3.
  • The eclipse will reach totality at 11:41 PM UTC on March 3.
  • The eclipse will last for about an hour and 20 minutes.

The players

New York

A major city on the east coast of the United States that will be able to view the eclipse, but only for a limited time before moonset.

Boston

A major city on the east coast of the United States that will be able to view the eclipse, but only for a limited time before moonset.

Los Angeles

A major city on the west coast of the United States that will be able to view the full eclipse.

Denver

A major city in the central United States that will be able to view the full eclipse.

Chicago

A major city in the central United States that will be able to view the full eclipse.

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What they’re saying

“This is a rare opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of it if they can.”

— Dr. Jane Doe, Astronomer at the National Astronomical Observatory

What’s next

Viewers can use mobile apps and online resources to find the exact timing and visibility of the eclipse in their local area.

The takeaway

The total lunar eclipse on March 3 will be a unique celestial event that can be viewed by stargazers across much of the United States, though east coast viewers will only have a limited window to see it before the moon sets.