The lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will coincide with the festival of Holi. This event marks the first lunar eclipse of the year in India. A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth positions itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. This particular eclipse will be a total lunar eclipse, during which the Moon may take on a copper-red hue, commonly referred to as a Blood Moon.

What to Expect

In various Indian cities, the eclipse will manifest as a rare “Grastodaya” event, where the Moon rises already in a state of eclipse. Instead of witnessing the beginning of the eclipse, observers will see the Moon emerge partially or fully obscured, creating a striking twilight display.

Lunar Eclipse March 2026: Phases and Timings

The eclipse will unfold through several phases on March 3, 2026:

• Penumbral begins: 2:14 PM
• Partial begins: 3:30 PM
• Totality begins: 4:58 PM
• Maximum eclipse: 5:25 PM
• Totality ends: 5:32 PM
• Partial ends: 6:47 PM
• Penumbral ends: 7:53 PM

(Timings are based on astronomical data from NASA and timeanddate.com.)

Visibility Across India

Yes, the total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will be visible across India, either partially or fully, depending on the location. Northeastern states will have the most spectacular views, as the Moon will rise already eclipsed, while other regions may only observe the later partial phases.

City-wise Visibility: Where to Watch

NORTHEAST INDIA: BEST VISIBILITY

• Guwahati: 5:45 PM – Total eclipse at rise
• Dibrugarh: 5:40 PM – Deep totality
• Itanagar: 5:35 PM – Total at moonrise
• Shillong: 5:44 PM – Blood Moon visible

Skywatchers in this region may witness a copper-red Moon shortly after it rises.

EASTERN INDIA

• Kolkata: 6 PM – Late total / partial
• Bhubaneswar: 6:05 PM – Partial
• Patna: 6:12 PM – Partial

DELHI, NORTH & CENTRAL INDIA

• New Delhi: 6:26 PM – Ending partial
• Jaipur: 6:28 PM – Partial
• Lucknow: 6:18 PM – Partial
• Bhopal: 6:24 PM – Partial

Totality may have concluded before moonrise in these areas.

WESTERN INDIA

• Mumbai: 6:30 PM – Late partial
• Ahmedabad: 6:35 PM – Brief partial
• Pune: 6:32 PM – Final phase

SOUTHERN INDIA

• Chennai: 6:15 PM – Partial
• Bengaluru: 6:28 PM – Partial
• Hyderabad: 6:22 PM – Partial
• Thiruvananthapuram: 6:23 PM – Partial

Understanding the Grastodaya Eclipse

Grastodaya refers to a lunar eclipse where the Moon rises already eclipsed. On March 3, many Indian cities will not witness the start of the eclipse, only the later stages as the Moon rises.

Cultural Significance of Holi and Sutak

As the eclipse coincides with Holi, it carries cultural significance. Some traditions may observe a Sutak period if the eclipse is visible locally. Practices vary by region and personal beliefs.

What Is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. During totality, the Moon can appear red due to atmospheric light scattering.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon may take on a copper-red hue, known as a Blood Moon. This occurs due to atmospheric scattering, where Earth’s atmosphere filters out blue light and bends red wavelengths toward the Moon.

Types of Lunar Eclipses

• Total Lunar Eclipse: The Moon fully enters Earth’s umbra and may appear red.
• Partial Lunar Eclipse: Only part of the Moon enters the umbra, creating a dark “bite.”
• Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: The Moon passes through Earth’s outer shadow, causing subtle dimming.

Is It Safe to Watch?

Yes, lunar eclipses are completely safe to observe with the naked eye. No special glasses are required.

How to Watch the Lunar Eclipse

If clouds obstruct your view, live coverage will be available on:

• NASA
• timeanddate.com
• Space.com

Why This Eclipse Matters

This event is significant as it is the first lunar eclipse of 2026, coinciding with Holi. Northeastern India will have prime visibility, and it presents a unique opportunity for skywatchers, photographers, and festival participants alike. Mark your calendars and check your city’s moonrise time before heading outside.

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