Capital Region Witnesses Rare Total Lunar Eclipse

Photos capture the region's glimpse of the first and only total lunar eclipse of 2026.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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The Capital Region was treated to a rare celestial event on Tuesday morning as a total lunar eclipse was visible across the region. With only two eclipses scheduled for 2026, local residents were up early to capture photos of the moon passing through Earth's shadow, taking on a distinctive red hue during the eclipse.

Why it matters

Lunar eclipses are relatively uncommon, with only a few occurring each year. This particular eclipse was the first and only total lunar eclipse visible from the Capital Region in 2026, making it a special astronomical event for local stargazers and photographers.

The details

The total lunar eclipse began around 4:35 a.m. and lasted until 8:33 a.m. on Tuesday morning. As the moon moved into Earth's shadow, it took on a reddish color, earning it the nickname "Blood Moon." Despite some cloud cover rolling in just before the eclipse, many residents across the region were able to capture stunning photos of the rare celestial event.

  • The total lunar eclipse began around 4:35 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
  • The eclipse lasted until 8:33 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The players

NEWS10

A local news station that covered the lunar eclipse and shared photos submitted by viewers.

Matt Mackie

A NEWS10 meteorologist who provided commentary on the weather conditions during the eclipse.

Karen Kahrs

A viewer who submitted a photo of the lunar eclipse from North Creek.

Tracey Schraver

A viewer who submitted a photo of the lunar eclipse from Diamond Point.

Eileen Rice

A viewer who submitted a photo of the lunar eclipse from Shaftsbury, Vermont.

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What they’re saying

“With only two eclipses slotted for 2026, the Capital Region witnessed the first and only total lunar eclipse of the year early Tuesday morning.”

— Caton Deuso, Author (news10.com)

The takeaway

This rare total lunar eclipse provided a unique opportunity for stargazers and photographers in the Capital Region to witness a stunning celestial event. Despite some cloud cover, many residents were able to capture the moon's transformation as it passed through Earth's shadow, highlighting the region's appreciation for the wonders of the night sky.