March 2026 Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse

A rare celestial event is happening soon, and it will be visible across much of Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and Tennessee.

The Full Worm Moon will coincide with a total lunar eclipse, creating what many call a Blood Moon.

The best part? If the skies cooperate, you won't need any special glasses or equipment to watch!

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Why It Is Called A Blood Moon

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon. As Earth’s shadow slowly covers the Moon, sunlight filters through our atmosphere.

That filtered light bends and scatters, giving the Moon a coppery red or orange glow. That dramatic color shift is what gives it the nickname Blood Moon.

Unlike a solar eclipse, this event is completely safe to watch with the naked eye.

Why It Is Also Called The Worm Moon

The March Full Moon is traditionally known as the Worm Moon. The Old Farmer's Almanac says the name dates back to Native American and colonial-era naming traditions that marked seasonal changes.

As the ground begins to thaw in early spring, earthworms reappear, signaling the changing season.

This year, that seasonal Full Moon just happens to come with a rare eclipse bonus.

When To See The March 2026 Blood Moon

According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, the eclipse reaches its greatest point at 6:33 A.M. Eastern Time on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Here is how the timeline breaks down:

The Moon enters the penumbra at 3:44 A.M EST
The Moon enters the umbra at 4:50 A.M. EST
Greatest eclipse at 6:33 A.M. EST

For those in Central Time, including portions of Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, that means the peak occurs at 5:33 A.M. CST.

Set your alarms accordingly.

Will You Be Able To See It In Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, And Tennessee

This total lunar eclipse will be visible across much of North America. What you see will depend on cloud cover and your exact location.

Because the eclipse happens in the early morning hours just before sunrise, western portions of the region may get a slightly longer view of totality before dawn lightens the sky.

If the weather cooperates, this could be one of the most memorable skywatching moments of 2026.

LOOK: 31 breathtaking images from NASA's public library

In 2017, NASA opened the digital doors to its image and video library website, allowing the public to access more than 140,000 images, videos, and audio files. The collection provides unprecedented views of space. Stacker reviewed the collection to select 31 of the most breathtaking images, including the first from the James Webb Space Telescope. Keep reading to see these stunning images, curated with further information about the captured scenes.

Gallery Credit: Deborah Brosseau