Total lunar eclipse to create “blood moon” on March 3
A total lunar eclipse, often called a “blood moon” due to the moon’s reddish hue from Earth’s atmospheric scattering of sunlight, is occurring today, March 3, 2026. This event peaks around 11:33 UTC, with totality lasting about 58 minutes.
The eclipse unfolds in phases over roughly 5 hours and 39 minutes.
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Penumbral begins: 8:44 UTC (subtle shading starts).
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Partial begins: 9:57 UTC (Earth’s shadow creeps across the moon).
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Totality: 11:04–12:03 UTC (full blood-red phase, peaking at 11:33 UTC).
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Partial ends: 13:12 UTC.
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Penumbral ends: 14:23 UTC.
Best views are across North and Central America (early morning), eastern Asia, Australia, and the Pacific—visible to over 3 billion people. In India (IST), totality aligns with 4:34–5:33 PM, though the moon may be low or below the horizon in some areas. No special equipment needed; look east after sunset where visible.
This is the first total lunar eclipse since 2025, with the next not until late 2028. The moon’s red color arises as sunlight refracts through Earth’s atmosphere during totality.
