Blood Moon 2026: The moon is set to turn a deep, eerie crimson color on March 3, 2026. Known as the “Blood Moon,” this spectacular sight occurs during a total lunar eclipse.
Unlike solar eclipses, which require special eye protection, the Blood Moon is completely safe to view with the naked eye.
Here’s a complete guide detailing exactly when and where you can witness this cosmic masterpiece and why the moon takes on its iconic red hue:
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What is a Blood Moon? The Science of the Crimson Glow
A blood moon is a beautiful byproduct of Earth’s atmosphere and not a sign of the apocalypse.
During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth is perfectly aligned between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow (umbrella) across the lunar surface. While Earth blocks direct sunlight, our atmosphere acts as a giant lens.
It filters the shorter blue and violet wavelengths of light and refracts (bends) the longer red and orange wavelengths toward the moon. This phenomenon, known as Rayleigh scattering, is the same reason sunsets appear red.
Essentially, when you look at a Blood Moon, you see a reflection of every sunrise and sunset on Earth all at once hitting the lunar surface.
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Blood Moon 2026: When to Watch
A total lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026. The “totality” phase, when the Moon is completely immersed in Earth’s red shadow, will last approximately 58 minutes.
A partial eclipse begins: 15:20 IST
Totality begins (Blood Moon).: 16:34 IST
Maximum Eclipse: 17:03 IST
Totality ends: 17:33 IST
Blood Moon 2026: Where to watch
Although this is a global event, the viewing time depends on the viewer’s location.
For viewers on the US East Coast, the Moon will set while it is still in the “blood” phase, resulting in a dramatic, red Moonset on the western horizon. Those on the West Coast and Hawaii will have a front row seat to the entire event.
US Pacific Coast (PT): 3:04 a.m. – 4:02 a.m
American Mountain Time (MT): 4:04 – 5:02
Australia (ACDT): 21:34 – 22:32
New Zealand (NZDT): 00:04 – 1:02 (March 4)
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Blood Moon 2026: Where to Watch in India
In India, the March 3 lunar eclipse or Chandra Grahan offers a unique viewing experience. Because of the timing, most of the country will see the moon rise already during the eclipse.
The northeastern states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya will witness the end of the ‘totality’ phase with the rising moon. Between 17:15 and 17:30 IST, a deep copper-red moon will be seen just above the eastern horizon.
Rest of India – Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru – overall phase ends just before moonrise. However, observers will still see a significant partial eclipse. As the Moon rises around 18:20 IST, a large ‘bite’ appears as it slowly leaves Earth’s shadow.
To capture the red hue in India, sky lovers need to find a high vantage point with a completely unobstructed view of the eastern horizon.
Blood Moon 2026: Tips for the best viewing experience
Check the weather: Use an astronomy app to track cloud cover 24 hours in advance.
Use the binoculars: Although not necessary, binoculars will help you see the craters and structure of the Moon through the red veil.
Find the dark sky: Even when the moon is bright, light pollution can dull the intensity of the red color.
Be patient: The transition from a bright white moon to a dark red happens slowly over the course of an hour – grab a chair and a beverage of your choice.
