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Rare “Blood Moon” Total Lunar Eclipse Over SF (March 3)

Set your alarm for 3 am. This is the last total lunar eclipse until 2028.
By - posted 1/14/2026 No Comment
Eliot Herman

In the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, skywatchers in the San Francisco Bay Are will have the chance to see a dramatic Total Lunar Eclipse, commonly called a Blood Moon.

During a total lunar eclipse, Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, and our planet’s shadow gradually covers the lunar surface. As sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere, the Moon can take on a coppery, reddish hue. It is a striking natural spectacle and is visible without any special equipment.

This eclipse will be the last total lunar eclipse until late 2028 (the next one occurring around December 31, 2028 to January 1, 2029), making it a rare opportunity for observers in North and South America, Asia, and Australia.

For viewers in San Francisco, the total phase of the eclipse, when the Moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow and most likely to appear red, will occur roughly from 3:04 a.m. to 4:02 a.m. PST on March 3, 2026.

2026 Eclipse timeline (approximate for PST):

  • Penumbral eclipse begins: before the Moon noticeably darkens
  • Partial eclipse begins: Earth’s dark inner shadow starts covering the Moon
  • Totality begins: around 3:04 a.m. PST
  • Maximum totality: peak reddish color
  • Totality ends: around 4:02 a.m. PST
  • Partial and penumbral phases continue until the Moon exits Earth’s shadow completely (timings vary by location)

Because the Moon will be well above the western horizon in early morning darkness, skywatchers in the Bay Area should have a good chance of seeing the entire total phase of the eclipse, weather permitting.

Why it’s special: This is the only total lunar eclipse in 2026, and it will not happen again for nearly three years.

You can head outside yourself to catch the view, but if you’re looking to fully immerse yourself, join in for Chabot Space & Science Center’s Total Lunar Eclipse Watch Party. Join Chabot astronomers for a live watch party of the magnificent Total Lunar Eclipse from Chabot’s Observation Deck. Tickets are $15; free for members.