A total lunar eclipse will occur tonight, offering New Zealanders what’s been described as the “best seat in the world” to view the event. The eclipse, often referred to as a “blood moon,” is the only one scheduled for 2026.
A Rare Celestial Event
According to Stardome, the eclipse will commence around 9:45pm. The organization noted on social media that New Zealand is uniquely positioned to witness the eclipse in its entirety. The peak viewing time is expected between midnight and 1:00am, with the maximum eclipse occurring just after 12:30am on Wednesday.
Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki explained to RNZ that while lunar eclipses aren’t rare, the opportunity to view one in its entirety from a specific location is. “For this one in particular, we really have the best seat in the world, really. It’s really only visible for its entirety over the Pacific.”
The eclipse coincides with increased public interest in lunar exploration, driven by NASA’s Artemis missions. Aoraki noted that events like this serve as a reminder of the “cool things happening up there all the time.”
Viewers in the South Island and upper North Island are expected to have the clearest views, according to MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan, “If you’re daring enough to leave the comfort of a warm bed.”
Stardome assures potential viewers that no special equipment is needed – just your eyes and a clear view of the sky. The total eclipse will also be visible in eastern Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and North and Central America, with partial visibility in central Asia and much of South America.
Key Events – Auckland Time
- 8.11pm Tuesday 3 March – Moonrise
- 9.44pm Tuesday 3 March – Penumbral eclipse begins
- 10.50pm Tuesday 3 March – Partial eclipse begins
- 12.04am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse begins
- 12.33am Wednesday 4 March – Maximum eclipse
- 1.02am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse ends
- 2.17am Wednesday 4 March – Partial eclipse ends
- 3.23am Wednesday 4 March – Penumbral eclipse ends
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the lunar eclipse begin?
According to Stardome, the lunar eclipse will begin around 9:45pm on Tuesday, March 3.
Where is the best place to view the eclipse?
New Zealand has the “best seat in the world” to view the eclipse, and the South Island and upper North Island are expected to have the clearest views.
How often do total lunar eclipses occur?
There will not be another total lunar eclipse until 2028.
Will you be looking up at the night sky tonight to witness this rare celestial event?
