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Witness the "Blood Moon": Total Lunar Eclipse on March 13-14
Get ready for a celestial spectacle! A total lunar eclipse, also known as a "blood moon," will grace the night sky on March 13th and into the early hours of March 14th. This breathtaking event, where the Earth casts its shadow on the moon, turning it a dramatic reddish hue, will be visible across North and South America, and parts of Europe and Africa. It's the first total lunar eclipse visible from the entire contiguous United States since 2022, making it a must-see event.
When and Where to See the Eclipse
The timing varies by time zone. Peak viewing times (totality) are approximately:
- Eastern Time (ET): 2:26 a.m. – 3:31 a.m. (March 14th)
- Central Time (CT): 1:26 a.m. – 2:31 a.m. (March 14th)
- Mountain Time (MT): 12:26 a.m. – 1:31 a.m. (March 14th)
- Pacific Time (PT): 11:26 p.m. (March 13th) – 12:31 a.m. (March 14th)
If the weather isn't cooperative or you're outside the visible region, join a livestream from renowned institutions like the Virtual Telescope Project, Adler Planetarium, or Griffith Observatory.
Why the "Blood Moon"?
The moon's red color during totality is due to the scattering of sunlight through Earth's atmosphere. Longer wavelengths of light (red) pass through more easily, while shorter wavelengths (blue) are scattered away. This filtered sunlight illuminates the moon, giving it that eerie, blood-red glow. The intensity of the red can vary depending on atmospheric conditions.
How to View the Eclipse
No special equipment is needed to view this safe celestial event; however, binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience. Find a dark location away from city lights for the best view. The next total lunar eclipse visible from the U.S. won't occur until March 2026!
