What Happened?
A total lunar eclipse is set to occur in the early morning hours of March 3, 2026, with visibility across North America, including Vancouver. This celestial event will see the moon shrouded in darkness as the Earth’s shadow blocks sunlight, transforming the moon into a ‘Blood Moon’ due to the red glow caused by the Earth’s atmosphere. The eclipse will begin at 12:44 a.m. PT, with the totality phase lasting approximately 30 minutes from 3:33 a.m. to 4:02 a.m. PT, as reported by Matthew Cimone, a senior space science interpreter at the HR MacMillan Space Centre.
Why It Matters
This total lunar eclipse is significant as it marks the first lunar eclipse of the year and the last total lunar eclipse until New Year’s Eve 2028-2029. Such events are rare and provide a unique opportunity for sky gazers to witness the intricate workings of our universe. The visibility of the eclipse from nearly anywhere with a clear view of the sky makes it accessible for many, encouraging public interest in astronomy and natural phenomena.
What’s Next?
As the total lunar eclipse approaches, residents are encouraged to prepare for the early morning viewing. Finding a location away from tall buildings and trees will enhance the experience. Following this event, the next total lunar eclipse will not occur until December 31, 2028, making this a must-see phenomenon for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
