The first total lunar eclipse of 2026 will occur on March 3, when the Moon will turn copper-red during totality. The celestial event will be visible across the night side of Earth, with the best views from western North America, Australia and the Pacific region. The phenomenon happens when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow and giving the Moon a reddish glow. The eclipse is completely safe to watch without special equipment.

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• First total lunar eclipse of 2026 on March 3
• Moon to appear copper-red during totality (“blood moon”)
• Totality lasts 58 minutes: 6:04am–7:02am EST (1104–1202 GMT)
• Best visibility: western North America, Australia, Pacific region
• Visible evening in eastern Asia, overnight in Pacific
• Early morning view in North & Central America, far western South America
• Partial eclipse in central Asia, much of South America
• No visibility in Africa and Europe
• Caused by Earth passing between Sun and Moon during full Moon phase
• Safe to watch with naked eye; dark locations enhance viewing