March Blood Moon Illuminates the Sky Across America: Photos

by Dina Sartore-Bodo

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, an incredible total lunar eclipse captivated the skies around the world, with visibility possible across most of America in the early morning hours.

And the first mesmerizing images are already pouring in.

A total lunar eclipse makes the moon appear dark red or orange, earning it the nickname "blood moon." This coloring happens because the Earth blocks most of the sun's light from reaching the moon.

The next total lunar eclipse won't be visible from the Americas until New Years Eve 2028, according to NASA, so depending on where you live, this was likely your best chance to get a glimpse of this phenomenon before a the long stretch to 2029.

Photos of the blood moon during the lunar eclipse

Celestial fans have been treated to a rather stacked lineup the past few years, but this eclipse was the last of three consecutive total lunar eclipses; the first occurred in March 2025, and the second took place in September 2025.

Since the blood moon occurred just before sunrise in the early morning, many had to wake up quite early to see the phenomenon.

Consequently, homeowners farther west in places like Los Angeles, Seattle, and Portland, OR, had the better view, as the moon was higher in the sky during the "red" (totality) phase, allowing them to see more of the eclipse before it drops below the horizon.

Still, cloudy skies in many areas dimmed the brightness of the red glow, and it was better seen in cities in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific.

Moonrise in New York City — Blood moon rises behind the Edge outdoor observation deck at Hudson Yards in New York City ahead of a total lunar eclipse. (Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

Full Blood Moon in San Francisco — The full blood moon rises in San Francisco on March 2, 2026. (Anadolu via Getty Images)

The farther east, the more homeowners were in a race against the sun; and as the moon dimmed, so did the chance of seeing the lunar eclipse in full. Still, in cities like New York and Philadelphia, the chance of seeing a partial blood moon was high given the lack of cloud cover that early in the morning.

NASA reported that along with the lunar eclipse, several constellations were easier to spot than usual during a full moon. In fact, at the time of the eclipse, the moon was in line within the constellation Leo, just under the lion's hind paws.

What time was the blood moon?

According to Time and Date, the March 3 total lunar eclipse key viewing times for this event varied across various time zones:

Eastern Time: 6:04-7:02 a.m. EST on March 3, 2026 (the moon will set during totality in the Eastern time zone)
Central Time: 5:04-6:02 a.m. CST on March 3, 2026
Mountain Time: 4:04-5:02 a.m. MST on March 3, 2026
Pacific Time: 3:04-4:02 a.m PST on March 3, 2026
Alaska Time: 2:04-3:02 a.m. AKST on March 3, 2026
Hawaii Time: 1:04-2:02 a.m. HST on March 3, 2026

For those who missed the blood moon, a live stream had been set up to enjoy from the comfort of your home and is replaying key moments of the eclipse to be enjoyed.

GET MORE INFORMATION

Name

Email*

Phone*

Message

By registering on this website, you hereby grant permission to Round Table Realty, its affiliates, and its agents to contact you via email, text message, telephone, and other communication methods, including but not limited to mass communication systems, unique communication systems, and automated or artificial intelligence systems. Such communications may be for the purposes of responding to inquiries, providing real estate services, marketing, or other business-related matters.

You acknowledge that these communications may include autodialed or prerecorded messages and that you consent to receiving such communications at the email address and phone number(s) you provide, even if your phone number is on a state or national Do Not Call registry. Message and data rates may apply.

This consent is not a condition of any purchase or transaction. You may revoke your consent to receive such communications at any time by notifying us in writing or using the opt-out mechanisms provided in the communication.

Florida-Specific Notice:
Pursuant to Florida law, you are hereby informed that your contact information may be used to provide information about real estate services, listings, and related topics. Round Table Realty complies with all applicable federal and state laws, including the Florida Telephone Solicitation Act (FTSA), and takes measures to ensure the security and confidentiality of your contact information.

For more information about our policies or to exercise your rights under applicable laws, please see our Privacy Policy.

By clicking “I'm Finished” or completing the registration process, you affirmatively acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclosure and consent to the above terms.