Sky watchers are in for a rare celestial show this March as the full moon turns a deep red during a total lunar eclipse. The event will unfold on the night of March 13 or early March 14, depending on the location, and will be visible across much of the Western Hemisphere.
March’s full moon, known as the Blood Worm Moon, gets its name from when earthworms emerge as the ground thaws, marking the transition from winter to spring. The first day of spring arrives just days later, on March 20.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow over the moon’s surface. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes into the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow. Sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere, blue and green light scatter, and red and orange hues remain, giving the Moon its signature deep red glow. The more dust and clouds in the atmosphere, the redder the Moon will appear.
NASA compares this effect to seeing a planet-wide sunrise and sunset projected onto the moon. This process makes the sky appear blue during the day and red at sunset.
The eclipse will be visible across much of North and South America, with the best views in regions with clear skies. People in the U.S. can check exact moonrise times through The Old Farmer’s Almanac and use weather forecasts to find the best viewing conditions.
Astronomers recommend heading to a dark location away from city lights for the clearest view. The total eclipse will last several hours, with the moon appearing at its reddest during the peak phase.
The Blood Worm Moon won’t be the only highlight in the sky. Those looking west during the eclipse may also spot Jupiter and Mars, which will be visible near the horizon. Additionally, with the Moon’s usual brightness dimmed, constellations may be easier to see than on a typical night.
A rare phenomenon known as a moonbow could appear if there is light rain in the area. Like a rainbow, a moonbow forms when moonlight refracts through water droplets in the atmosphere. This effect is best seen when the full moon is low, shortly after sunset.
The Worm Moon is one of several names different cultures use to describe March’s full moon. Some Indigenous communities call it the Eagle Moon, Goose Moon, or Crow Comes Back Moon, marking the seasonal changes as birds and wildlife return.
Other names include Sugar Moon, Wind Strong Moon, and Sore Eyes Moon, reflecting early spring conditions.
Lunar eclipses are among the most accessible astronomical events, requiring no special equipment to observe. With the combination of a Blood Moon, visible planets, and a possible moonbow, this March’s total lunar eclipse is set to be a spectacular sight.
