Lunar Eclipse Tonight: What You Need to Know

A total lunar eclipse will be visible above Kansas City early Tuesday morning, but clouds may obscure the view.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A total lunar eclipse will be visible in the southwest sky over Kansas City early Tuesday morning, with the maximum eclipse occurring around 5:33 a.m. Unfortunately, there is a near 100% chance of cloud cover, which may prevent stargazers from seeing the rare celestial event. The partial eclipse begins at 3:50 a.m., and the total eclipse reaches its peak at 5:33 a.m., when the moon will appear a deep red color. However, the clouds are expected to persist throughout the eclipse window, and temperatures will be cold, hovering between 38 and 42 degrees.

Why it matters

Lunar eclipses are relatively rare events, with the next total lunar eclipse visible from Kansas City not happening until June 25, 2029. This eclipse is an opportunity for residents to witness a natural light show, but the cloud cover may prevent many from seeing it.

The details

The partial eclipse begins at 3:50 a.m., with the total eclipse kicking in at 5:04 a.m. The eclipse reaches its maximum at 5:33 a.m., when the moon will turn a deep red color. The total eclipse ends at 6:02 a.m., with the remaining partial eclipse being clipped by moonset at 6:51 a.m.

  • The partial eclipse begins at 3:50 a.m.
  • The total eclipse kicks in at 5:04 a.m.
  • The eclipse reaches its maximum at 5:33 a.m.
  • The total eclipse ends at 6:02 a.m.
  • The remaining partial eclipse is clipped by moonset at 6:51 a.m.

The players

KCTV5

A local television news station serving the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Mike Nicco

The author of the article, a meteorologist reporting on the lunar eclipse.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If you only have time for one look, aim for 5:33 a.m. for the most dramatic view. Set your alarm for 5:15 a.m. and check outside.”

— Mike Nicco, Meteorologist (KCTV5)

“A total eclipse of the heart if you see clouds, turn around and head back to bed.”

— Mike Nicco, Meteorologist (KCTV5)

What’s next

The next total lunar eclipse visible from Kansas City won't happen until June 25, 2029. If clouds keep residents from seeing this one, they will have to wait three more years.

The takeaway

While lunar eclipses are relatively rare events, the cloud cover over Kansas City is expected to prevent many residents from witnessing this particular eclipse. However, this serves as a reminder that celestial events like this are opportunities for the community to come together and appreciate the natural wonders of the universe, even if the weather doesn't cooperate.