TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The night sky of Australia is once again bracing for another celestial wonder with the arrival of a total lunar eclipse this March. This rare event will appear in glowing reddish hues on the evening of Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Though its duration is fleeting, the impressively rare alignment is anticipated both by seasoned skywatchers and amateurs.
Citing Time Out and NASA, here are some details to keep you informed about viewing this rare total lunar eclipse in Australia.
When does the Total Lunar Eclipse Happen in Australia?
Also known as a blood moon, the total lunar eclipse occurs only when the Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon, creating a crimson illusion hovering over some places around the world, including Australia.
This March, East Coast skywatchers will be treated to a total lunar eclipse on the night of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, across many areas, specifically in Sydney and NSW.
Much like other celestial events, the total lunar eclipse will take place at slightly different times depending on the local time zone. For the most part, the blood moon will reach its highly anticipated total phase for a duration of 58 minutes.
Here is the full totality timing across Australia’s capital cities, as highlighted by 9news:
Sydney - starts 10.04 p.m., ends 11.02 p.m.
Canberra - starts 10.04 p.m., ends 11.02 p.m.
Brisbane - starts 9.04 p.m., ends 10.02 p.m.
Melbourne - starts 10.04 p.m., ends 11.02 p.m.
Adelaide - starts 9.34 p.m., ends 10.32 p.m.
Hobart - starts 10.04 p.m., ends 11.02 p.m.
Darwin - starts 8.34 p.m., ends 9.32 p.m.
Perth - starts 7.04 p.m., ends 8.02 p.m.
How to See the Total Lunar Eclipse in Australia?
A total lunar eclipse is safe to watch with the naked eye, and no special equipment is required to enjoy it. Skywatchers can simply step outside and look up at the night sky, though binoculars or a telescope are advisable to provide a clearer view. For the best experience, Time Out recommends choosing a high vantage point with an unobstructed horizon and minimal artificial light to better capture the moon’s deep red glow.
For anyone wanting to learn more about this celestial event, check out our full global guide to the total lunar eclipse here.
Read: March 2026 Worm Blood Moon: Everything You Need to Know
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