Rare ‘Blood Moon’ will paint the sky on March 3

8:20 a.m. Feb. 28, 2026

Rare ‘Blood Moon’ will paint the sky on March 3

DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor

Early risers in Moore County and across North America will have a short but potentially breathtaking chance on Tuesday, March 3, to see one of the sky’s most dramatic sights: a total lunar eclipse, often called a “Blood Moon.”

This will be the only total lunar eclipse in 2026. After this, skywatchers will have to wait almost three years for the next one, which will happen on New Year’s Eve 2028-29.

What Is a ‘Blood Moon’?

A total lunar eclipse happens when Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow over the moon’s surface. During totality, when the moon is fully in Earth’s shadow, it turns a coppery-red color.

The color comes from sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere. Shorter blue wavelengths scatter, while longer red wavelengths bend into the shadow and illuminate the moon. The effect can range from faint orange to deep crimson, depending on atmospheric conditions.

This March eclipse happens during the month’s full moon, which is traditionally called the “Worm Moon.” The name comes from old folklore that marks the coming of spring.

Timing: A Race Against Sunrise

Totality will last 58 minutes, starting at 5:04 a.m. CT. The whole eclipse, from when the moon first touches Earth’s shadow until it leaves, will take more than five hours.

For people in the eastern United States, including Tennessee, the timing is tricky. The moon will be low in the west as totality starts, and sunrise will come soon after. To get the best view before the moon sets, find a spot with a clear view to the west and few trees or buildings.

Safe and Simple to Watch

Unlike a solar eclipse, you can safely watch a lunar eclipse with your bare eyes – no need for special glasses or filters. Binoculars or a small telescope can help you see more detail, but you don’t need them to enjoy the show.

Since the eclipse happens slowly, you can watch the moon darken as Earth’s shadow moves across it, then see it glow red during totality.

Tips for Photographing the Eclipse

Taking photos of a lunar eclipse is easier than you might think, even for beginners. Experts suggest:
• Using a tripod to prevent blur during longer exposures.
• Switching to manual focus to ensure sharp detail.
• Shooting in manual mode to control shutter speed and ISO.
• Bracketing exposures, since the moon’s brightness changes dramatically throughout the event.

During totality, the moon will be much dimmer than a normal full moon, so you’ll need longer exposures or higher ISO settings.

Why This One Matters

Total lunar eclipses are not very rare worldwide, but they don’t happen often in one place, so they feel special. With only one total lunar eclipse in 2026 and none again until late 2028, Tuesday is a rare chance to see one.

In Moore County, the eclipse will be brief, with the red moon setting as dawn arrives. Farther west, people will get a longer and more dramatic view in darker skies.

No matter where you are, astronomers have simple advice: set your alarm, go outside, and look up.