March Blood Moon: When to Watch the Total Lunar Eclipse and Why the Moon Turns Red

Skywatchers across much of the world will have a chance to see the moon glow a dramatic reddish-orange during a total lunar eclipse — commonly called a “blood moon.”

The celestial event happens when Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. As sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter blue wavelengths scatter while longer red wavelengths bend toward the moon, giving it a deep crimson hue.

The eclipse will be visible across Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, with timing varying by time zone. The event begins with a penumbral phase at 3:44 a.m. Eastern Time, followed by a partial eclipse at 4:50 a.m. Totality begins at 6:04 a.m., with peak color expected around 6:34 a.m. The total eclipse ends at 7:03 a.m., and the entire event concludes at 9:23 a.m.

Experts say no special equipment is needed — just clear skies and a good view of the sky. Binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the experience, but simply looking up is enough.

This eclipse marks the final one in a series of three total lunar eclipses that began in 2025. After this event, the next total lunar eclipse will not occur until December 31, 2028.

March’s full moon is also known by several traditional names, including the “worm moon,” marking the return of earthworms as spring approaches, and other cultural names tied to seasonal changes.

The year will feature more sky events, including a total solar eclipse in August and multiple upcoming lunar and solar eclipses through 2027.

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