A total lunar eclipse occurs when the full moon passes completely into Earth's shadow, known as the umbra. Instead of disappearing into darkness, the moon transforms into a striking reddish color — a phenomenon often nicknamed a "blood moon." We will see this occur on March 3, 2026, when a total lunar eclipse will be visible over the Americas, Australia, New Zealand and East Asia.
During this celestial event, skywatchers can see the moon gradually shift from its usual bright gray to shades of deep red, orange and even copper. For a short time, the entire lunar surface glows with these eerie colors before slowly fading back to its normal appearance as it exits Earth's shadow.
