Skywatchers, prepare for a breathtaking cosmic event—the "Blood Moon" total lunar eclipse is set to cast an eerie red glow over the night sky this week. For those in the U.S., the rare phenomenon will be visible on the night of March 13 into the early hours of March 14, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most stunning displays.
And the best part? No fancy telescopes or special equipment required—just look up!
According to Dr. Angela Speck, an astrophysicist at the University of Texas, the effect is similar to a famous album cover:
"Think of Pink Floyd’s 'Dark Side of the Moon.' Light bends as it passes through Earth's atmosphere, filtering out blues and allowing only red light to reach the Moon."
In other words, during the eclipse, we’re seeing the glow of every sunrise and sunset on Earth reflected off the Moon.
The deep red hue will linger for about an hour, giving night owls and stargazers plenty of time to take in the spectacle. Even city dwellers with streetlights nearby will be able to see the eclipse, but those seeking the most vivid experience may want to venture to a darker location.
While there will be another eclipse in March 2026, only part of the U.S. will have a clear view, and the next truly nationwide event won’t occur until October 2032.
"If you’re in the U.S. and don’t travel abroad to see these things, this is your last chance for a while," Speck emphasized.
So set your alarms, grab a warm drink, and don’t miss your chance to witness the Moon turn red before your eyes!
And the best part? No fancy telescopes or special equipment required—just look up!
What Makes This Eclipse Special?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight and casting our planet’s shadow over the lunar surface. But instead of vanishing into darkness, the Moon will transform into an eerie deep red hue, earning the nickname "Blood Moon."According to Dr. Angela Speck, an astrophysicist at the University of Texas, the effect is similar to a famous album cover:
"Think of Pink Floyd’s 'Dark Side of the Moon.' Light bends as it passes through Earth's atmosphere, filtering out blues and allowing only red light to reach the Moon."
In other words, during the eclipse, we’re seeing the glow of every sunrise and sunset on Earth reflected off the Moon.
When and Where to Watch
For those in the Eastern Time Zone, the full eclipse will begin at 2:26 a.m. ET and last until 3:31 a.m. ET, with the entire event spanning from 11:57 p.m. ET to 6 a.m. ET.The deep red hue will linger for about an hour, giving night owls and stargazers plenty of time to take in the spectacle. Even city dwellers with streetlights nearby will be able to see the eclipse, but those seeking the most vivid experience may want to venture to a darker location.
Miss This One? You’ll Be Waiting a While
Lunar eclipses happen twice a year, but not all are visible from the U.S. This will be the last total lunar eclipse viewable across the entire country until 2032!While there will be another eclipse in March 2026, only part of the U.S. will have a clear view, and the next truly nationwide event won’t occur until October 2032.
"If you’re in the U.S. and don’t travel abroad to see these things, this is your last chance for a while," Speck emphasized.
So set your alarms, grab a warm drink, and don’t miss your chance to witness the Moon turn red before your eyes!