Set Your Alarm: The Last Blood Moon Until 2028 Lights Up North America Tonight

When To Watch The Blood Moon In North America

All times below are Eastern Time. Adjust for your time zone.

• 3:44 a.m. ET: The moon enters the penumbra. Subtle dimming begins.

• 4:50 a.m. ET: The moon enters the darker umbra. A curved shadow appears.

• 6:04 a.m. ET: Totality begins. The moon turns red.

• 6:33 a.m. ET: Peak red coloration.

• 7:03 a.m. ET: Totality ends.

On the West Coast, totality occurs between roughly 3:04 a.m. and 4:03 a.m. local time, with darker skies and arguably the best viewing conditions.

On the East Coast, sunrise begins as totality ends, which may wash out some of the red glow. You will still see the eclipse, but the contrast will be softer.

If you are in central time zones, you are in a sweet spot between dark skies and convenient timing.

Where Skies Look Most Promising

Clear weather will determine everything.

Forecast models currently suggest:

• Best odds for clear skies: California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico

• Favorable conditions: Much of inland western U.S. and parts of Mexico

• More uncertain: Central and northern U.S.

• Variable but possible: Parts of New York State and New England

If clouds are a concern, head toward open areas away from city lights. A flat western horizon is especially helpful if the moon is setting during totality in your location.

Why The Moon Turns Red

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon. The moon enters the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra.

But the moon does not disappear. Sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out blue light and allows red and orange wavelengths to reach the lunar surface. The result is a copper or crimson glow.

The exact shade depends on what is in the atmosphere at the time. Dust, smoke, or volcanic particles can deepen the red tone. For about 59 minutes, the moon will look as though it has borrowed every sunrise and sunset on Earth at once.

A Rare Dawn Moment

If you are on the East Coast or in eastern Canada, you may notice something unusual near sunrise. In some locations, the sun and the eclipsed moon can briefly appear in the sky at the same time.

This effect, called a selenelion, happens because Earth’s atmosphere bends light slightly near the horizon. It is subtle, but if you have a clear view and low horizon, it can feel surreal.

How To Watch Without Overthinking It

You do not need special equipment. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is safe to watch with the naked eye.

For the best experience:

• Step outside 20 to 30 minutes before totality

• Let your eyes adjust to the darkness

• Avoid bright phone screens

• Use binoculars if you want to see surface detail

• If photographing, stabilize your phone or camera

The most important factor is simply being outside at the right time.

Total lunar eclipses are not rare in general, but long gaps between total events do happen.

After this March 3 eclipse, there will not be another total lunar eclipse anywhere until late 2028.

You don't need to travel, and you don't need reservations to see. it. You just need an alarm clock and reasonably cooperative weather. If skies clear tonight, North America gets a front row seat.

FAQ: Lunar Eclipse Tonight

What time does the blood moon start in the U.S.?


The eclipse begins subtly at 3:44 a.m. ET. Totality begins at 6:04 a.m. ET. Adjust for your time zone.

Do I need eclipse glasses?

No. Lunar eclipses are completely safe to view without protection.

Will I see it in Canada and Mexico?


Yes. The total lunar eclipse is visible across most of North America, weather permitting.

Is it visible in Europe?


No. This eclipse is not visible from Europe.

How long will the moon be red?


Totality lasts about 59 minutes.

When is the next total lunar eclipse?

The next total lunar eclipse occurs in late 2028.