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March 3, 2026, will be a special date for lovers of the night sky in the United States. On that day, the full moon of March will occur, traditionally known as the "Worm Moon", and on this occasion it will be accompanied by a total lunar eclipse - a rare astronomical spectacle that combines a full moon with the appearance of a "Blood Moon".
What is the Worm Moon?
The Worm Moon is the traditional name given to the full moon in March in many cultures, especially in North America. This name comes from the time when the soil begins to thaw and earthworms reappear, marking the beginning of spring.
Exact date and time (EST)
- Full moon date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
- Full moon moment (maximum illumination): 6:38 a.m. EST (11:38 UTC)
This is the moment when the Moon will be 100% illuminated by the Sun from Earth's perspective. For naked-eye observers, the Moon will also appear full on the night before and the night after, between March 2 and 4.
Blood Moon: total lunar eclipse
In addition to being the full Moon, this Worm Moon coincides with a total lunar eclipse, meaning that the Moon will pass completely through Earth's shadow, taking on a reddish hue during the total phase - a phenomenon also known as a Blood Moon.
Eclipse timeline (EST)
- The penumbral phase begins: ~3:44 a.m. EST
- Entry into shadow threshold: ~4:50 a.m. EST
- Start of totality: ~6:04 a.m. EST
- Maximum moment / Blood Moon: ~6:33 a.m. EST
- End of totality: ~7:02 a.m. EST
- Penumbral shadow exit: ~9:22 a.m. EST
The entire eclipse will last approximately 58 minutes, and no special eye protection is required, as the light reflected by the Moon during a lunar eclipse is not harmful.
What it will look like in the sky
The Moon will rise shortly after sunset on March 2 in most of the U.S., and will be visible all night until dawn on March 3. Near the horizon, just after rising, the Moon may appear larger and a deep golden or orange color, a common visual illusion in moons near the horizon.
For an optimal experience:
- Look for places with a clear eastern horizon at dusk.
- Get closer to areas with low light pollution (parks, rural areas).
- The full moon can cause a bright glow in the sky, ideal for photos without the need for special equipment.
Where will it be best seen in the United States?
The Worm Moon will be visible across the United States, but the total phase of the eclipse will be most spectacular and highest in the sky in the west and central parts of the country before dawn. On the East Coast, the Moon will be lower and closer to the horizon when the eclipse occurs, although equally visible if skies are clear.
Tips for observing and photographing
- Without equipment: The full moon is already impressive to the naked eye.
- With camera or phone: Use a tripod and zoom in to capture color details and shadows during the eclipse.
- Plan ahead: The moon will rise at sunset on March 2, and the eclipse phase will occur before sunrise on March 3 in much of the country.