A Rare Treat for Sky Gazers: A Total Lunar Eclipse in March
March is shaping up to be a treat for sky gazers, as the moon prepares to take on a deep, reddish hue as it slips into the Earth’s shadow during a total lunar eclipse. The celestial phenomenon will begin late March 13 and continue into the early hours of March 14, according to NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Brenda Culbertson.
How the Moon Phases Work
The moon, which does not create its own light, is visible to us because of sunlight reflecting off its surface. The different phases of the moon appear as it orbits the Earth, changing our perspective of the half-lit moon, according to NASA. While the Earth’s shadow does not cause Moon phases, it is responsible for a lunar eclipse, which becomes total when the Moon moves into the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow, called the umbra.
How to Watch the Eclipse
Unlike last year’s total solar eclipse, there is no need for special viewing equipment. "Lunar eclipses are nice, because people can stay home, step outside from time to time to see the changes, and stay comfortable," NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Brenda Culbertson said. "Earth’s shadow is much larger than the lunar shadow that hits Earth in a thin line."
To maximize your viewing experience, get as far away from bright lights as possible. While there are no lunar eclipse glasses, using a telescope or binoculars will guarantee an even better view. As for visibility, anyone in the Western Hemisphere will have a chance to see the eclipse, barring cloud cover.
When to Watch
For planning purposes, here are the main milestones to mark:
- 11:57 p.m. – The moon will enter the outer part of the Earth’s shadow, called the penumbra. The effect will be subtle, but you may notice a slight dimming.
- 1:09 a.m. – The partial eclipse begins. The moon starts to move into the umbra and a bite-shaped chunk of the moon will darken noticeably.
- 2:26 a.m. – Totality begins with the moon fully in the Earth’s umbra. The moon will turn a coppery red, and photographers should use a tripod and adjust settings to allow more light to enter the lens (longer exposure).
- 3:31 a.m. – Totality ends with the redness starting to drain out of the moon. It will again appear that a bite has been taken out of the moon as it passes out of the shadow, this time on the other side.
- 4:47 a.m. – The entire moon is still in the penumbra, and the brightness has not entirely returned.
- 6 a.m. – The eclipse is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need special equipment to watch the eclipse?
A: No, unlike last year’s total solar eclipse, there is no need for special viewing equipment.
Q: How can I get the best view of the eclipse?
A: Get as far away from bright lights as possible, and consider using a telescope or binoculars for a better view.
Q: When can I see the eclipse?
A: The eclipse will be visible in the Western Hemisphere, barring cloud cover, and will occur on March 13-14.
Q: What if I miss the March 13/14 eclipse?
A: There will be another total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, but it will happen during moonset/sunrise for the eastern U.S.
