The first lunar eclipse of 2026 will turn the Moon into a deep red shade early on March 3.  

People in North America can watch this “blood moon” when the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the lunar surface.  

The light that does reach is bent by our atmosphere, giving the Moon a coppery tint.

Where to see it best depends on your location.  

The western half of North America, Australia and the Pacific will enjoy clearer views.  

Finding a dark spot with little cloud cover makes the experience brighter.

Total darkness of the eclipse lasts 58 minutes.  

It starts at 6:04 a. m. EST and ends at 7:02 a. m. EST on March 3, 2026.  

In other U. S. time zones the window shifts an hour earlier for each step westward.

If you live in New York, you will notice the Moon turning red before it sets.  

The deepest part of the eclipse happens after sunset, so you won’t see it fully in that city.  

Checking a local weather site can tell you if the sky will be clear.

This event is visible to billions worldwide, but the experience varies.  

People can follow live updates online if they miss the window in their area.


# The 2026 Lunar Eclipse: A Deep Red “Blood Moon”

**When:**  
- Starts: **06:04 a.m. EST**  
- Ends: **07:02 a.m. EST** (58‑minute total darkness)  
- Shift: *One hour earlier* for each step westward in U.S. time zones

**Where to Watch:**  
- **Western North America, Australia, Pacific Rim**: clearer views  
- Choose a *dark, cloud‑free* location for maximum brightness

**What to Expect:**  
- The Moon turns a *deep red*, or coppery tint, as sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere.  
- In New York, the red hue appears before sunset; the eclipse peaks after dusk, so the full effect is missed.  

**Tips:**  
- Check local weather forecasts for clear skies.  
- If you miss the window, follow live updates online to catch the event virtually.

**Global Reach:**  
- Visible to **billions worldwide**, though viewing quality varies by location.  



A Red Moon Reveal: Where to Catch March 3’s Eclipse

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