Watch live: Moon to turn red during lunar eclipse; timings in India, US

People across India, North America, East Asia, Australia, and parts of South America have a rare spectacle to look forward to on March 3. A total lunar eclipse, also known as Chandra Grahan or the ‘Blood Moon’, is set to take over the skies. During this extraordinary event, the Earth will align perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that will transform the lunar surface into a stunning red-orange display. Nearly 40% of the world’s population will have the chance to witness at least part of the lunar eclipse.

Unlike a solar eclipse, this lunar eclipse can be safely enjoyed with the naked eye, requiring no special protective gear.

4:50 a.m. ET – Partial eclipse begins; a “bite” appears on the Moon

6:04 a.m. ET – Totality begins; the Moon turns dark red or orange

7:03 a.m. ET – Totality ends

8:17 a.m. ET – Partial eclipse ends

9:23 a.m. ET – The eclipse is over

Eclipse Begins: 15:20

Totality Starts: 16:34

Totality Ends: 17:33

Eclipse Ends: 18:48

“Most places in India will observe the ending of the lunar eclipse at the time of moonrise, except some places in North-East India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where the end of the totality phase of the eclipse will also be visible,” the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a post on X.

In cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, the partial lunar eclipse will be visible between 5:38 PM and 7:53 PM, according to Time and Date.

How can you watch the Moon turn blood red during the lunar eclipse?

Lunar eclipses are among the easiest astronomical events to watch, as one only needs clear skies and the naked eye. Binoculars or a telescope can be used for a better viewing experience.