Total Lunar Eclipse on March 3: India Timings and Visibility
The first major celestial event of 2026 will arrive on March 3 with a total lunar eclipse. During this event, the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that turns the lunar surface a striking dark red or orange. This rare phenomenon is famously known as a “Blood Moon.”
Why Does a Total Lunar Eclipse Happen?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly. Earth blocks most of the Sun’s direct light from reaching the Moon. However, some sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out blue light and bends red light toward the Moon the same effect that causes red sunsets.
Global Visibility
The “Blood Moon” phase will be visible in its entirety from North America, Australia, New Zealand, and East Asia. In these regions, the Moon will be fully immersed in Earth’s dark shadow (the umbra) for about 58 minutes.
Visibility and Timings in India
In India, the eclipse is known as a “Grastodaya Chandra Grahan,” meaning the Moon will rise while already eclipsed. Because the total phase ends shortly after moonrise in most regions, skywatchers in India will primarily witness the final partial and penumbral stages.
Key Timings for India (IST):
- Moonrise: Between 5:30 PM and 6:40 PM (varies by city).
- Total Phase Ends: 5:32 PM (Only visible in parts of the Northeast).
- Partial Phase Ends: 6:47 PM.
- Eclipse Fully Ends: 7:53 PM.
City-Wise Visibility:
- Northeastern India (Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Itanagar): These cities have the best view. The Moon will rise while still in the total “Blood Moon” phase.
- Eastern India (Kolkata, Patna): Viewers will see the Moon rising just as it exits the total shadow, appearing as a deep partial eclipse.
- Central & Western India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru): In these regions, the Moon rises after the total phase has ended. You will see a partial eclipse for about 20 minutes before the Moon completely leaves the Earth’s dark shadow.
Cultural Significance: Holi 2026
This year’s eclipse is unique as it coincides with the festival of Holi. Since the eclipse is visible in India, the religious Sutak Kaal (period of abstinence) will be observed. According to traditional calendars, the Sutak period begins at 6:23 AM on March 3 and ends when the eclipse concludes in the evening.
How to Watch Safely
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is 100% safe to watch with the naked eye. You do not need any special filters or protective glasses.
- Where to look: Find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon.
- When to look: Start watching right at sunset as the Moon begins to rise.
- Enhance your view: While not required, binoculars or a telescope will reveal beautiful details of the Earth’s shadow moving across the lunar craters.
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