March 2026 contains four primary moon phases and a total lunar eclipse, making it one of the most astronomically significant months of the year. The Full Worm Moon on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, coincides with a total lunar eclipse visible across the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
This is also called the Blood Moon because the moon turns deep red during totality. The New Moon falls on Wednesday, March 18 or Thursday, March 19, 2026, depending on time zone, followed by the vernal equinox on Friday, March 20, 2026.
| Phase | Date | Time (UTC) | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Moon – Worm Moon / Blood Moon | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 11:38 UTC | Total Lunar Eclipse |
| Last Quarter | Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | Approx. 04:00 UTC | Quarter Phase |
| New Moon | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 01:23 UTC | New Moon (Pisces) |
| Vernal Equinox | Friday, March 20, 2026 | 14:46 UTC | Seasonal event |
| First Quarter | Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | Approx. 19:00 UTC | Quarter Phase |
Table of Contents
Moon Phase Calendar for March 2026
March 2026 contains all eight lunar phases, progressing from the Full Moon on Tuesday, March 3, through to the First Quarter on Wednesday, March 25. The following table provides the phase, approximate illumination, and astronomical constellation for each date.
| Date | Day | Phase | Illumination (Approx.) | Constellation (Astronomical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 1, 2026 | Sunday | Waxing Gibbous | 97% | Leo |
| March 2, 2026 | Monday | Waxing Gibbous | 99% | Leo |
| March 3, 2026 | Tuesday | Full Moon (Total Lunar Eclipse) | 100% | Leo |
| March 4, 2026 | Wednesday | Waning Gibbous | 99% | Virgo |
| March 5, 2026 | Thursday | Waning Gibbous | 96% | Virgo |
| March 6, 2026 | Friday | Waning Gibbous | 91% | Virgo |
| March 7, 2026 | Saturday | Waning Gibbous | 85% | Virgo |
| March 8, 2026 | Sunday | Waning Gibbous | 77% | Libra |
| March 9, 2026 | Monday | Waning Gibbous | 68% | Libra |
| March 10, 2026 | Tuesday | Waning Gibbous | 58% | Libra |
| March 11, 2026 | Wednesday | Last Quarter | 50% | Ophiuchus |
| March 12, 2026 | Thursday | Waning Crescent | 41% | Sagittarius |
| March 13, 2026 | Friday | Waning Crescent | 32% | Sagittarius |
| March 14, 2026 | Saturday | Waning Crescent | 23% | Capricornus |
| March 15, 2026 | Sunday | Waning Crescent | 15% | Capricornus |
| March 16, 2026 | Monday | Waning Crescent | 9% | Aquarius |
| March 17, 2026 | Tuesday | Waning Crescent | 4% | Aquarius |
| March 18, 2026 | Wednesday | Waning Crescent | 1% | Pisces |
| March 19, 2026 | Thursday | New Moon | 0% | Pisces |
| March 20, 2026 | Friday | Waxing Crescent | 1% | Pisces |
| March 21, 2026 | Saturday | Waxing Crescent | 4% | Aries |
| March 22, 2026 | Sunday | Waxing Crescent | 9% | Aries |
| March 23, 2026 | Monday | Waxing Crescent | 16% | Taurus |
| March 24, 2026 | Tuesday | Waxing Crescent | 25% | Taurus |
| March 25, 2026 | Wednesday | First Quarter | 50% | Gemini |
| March 26, 2026 | Thursday | Waxing Gibbous | 59% | Gemini |
| March 27, 2026 | Friday | Waxing Gibbous | 68% | Cancer |
| March 28, 2026 | Saturday | Waxing Gibbous | 77% | Cancer |
| March 29, 2026 | Sunday | Waxing Gibbous | 85% | Leo |
| March 30, 2026 | Monday | Waxing Gibbous | 91% | Leo |
| March 31, 2026 | Tuesday | Waxing Gibbous | 96% | Virgo |
Illumination percentages are approximate values based on standard lunar cycle progression. Precise illumination at any given time can be verified using NASA’s Moon Phase and Libration tool or the US Naval Observatory (USNO) astronomical almanac.
Full Moon March 2026 – The Worm Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse
The full moon in March 2026 occurs on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:38 UTC and coincides with a total lunar eclipse. This makes it one of the most observable full moons of the decade for viewers across the Americas, Europe, and Africa. The eclipse belongs to Saros cycle 133 and produces a totality duration of approximately 58 minutes.
What Is the Worm Moon?
The March full moon is called the Worm Moon, a name originating from Indigenous North American traditions — particularly Algonquin-speaking peoples — and recorded in colonial-era almanacs. The name refers to the earthworm casts that appear in thawing soil as temperatures rise in early spring across North America.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, which first widely published Indigenous moon names, assigns the Worm Moon as the primary name for the March full moon. Alternative names used by different North American Indigenous groups and regional traditions include:
| Christian tradition: the final full moon before Easter in some years | Origin / Association |
|---|---|
| Worm Moon | Most widely used; earthworm activity in thawing soil |
| Crow Moon | Cawing of crows signaling the end of winter |
| Crust Moon | Reference to snow surface crusting as days warm and nights freeze |
| Sap Moon | Maple sap flowing in late winter |
| Sugar Moon | Ojibwe tradition; maple sugaring season |
| Chaste Moon | European Celtic tradition; late winter austerity |
| Lenten Moon | Christian tradition; the final full moon before Easter in some years |
What Is the Blood Moon on March 3, 2026?
Blood Moon is the colloquial name for the total lunar eclipse on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. During the eclipse’s totality phase, the moon turns a deep red or reddish-orange color. This name does not have an official astronomical designation but is widely used by media, spiritual communities, and the general public.
The red color has a specific physical cause: Rayleigh scattering. During totality, the moon passes fully into Earth’s umbra — the darkest part of Earth’s shadow — and receives no direct sunlight.
However, Earth’s atmosphere refracts and filters sunlight around the edges of the planet. Blue and violet wavelengths scatter away during this passage through the thick atmospheric column. Red and orange wavelengths, which have longer wavelengths and scatter less, continue through and illuminate the moon’s surface. The result is the deep red coloration observed during totality.
| Phase | What Causes It | Color Observed |
|---|---|---|
| Penumbral contact | Moon enters outer shadow; indirect dimming | Slight dimming; near normal color |
| Partial umbral contact | Moon partially enters core shadow | One side darkens noticeably |
| Total eclipse (totality) | Moon fully inside umbra; Rayleigh scattering illuminates it | Deep red to reddish-orange |
| Partial umbral exit | Shadow retreats | Color fades; brightness returns |
| Penumbral exit | Full brightness restored | Normal |
The intensity of the red color during totality varies from eclipse to eclipse and depends on the current state of Earth’s atmosphere. Volcanic dust and atmospheric particulates reduce the amount of light reaching the moon, making totality darker and more crimson. This is measured on the Danjon Scale (0–4), where 0 is the darkest (nearly invisible moon), and 4 is the brightest coppery red.
Total Lunar Eclipse March 3, 2026 – Complete Timing and Visibility Guide
The total lunar eclipse on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, is visible from the Americas, Europe, and Africa in its totality phase. Asia and the Pacific see only partial phases or none at all, depending on location.
Eclipse Phase Timeline (UTC)
| Eclipse Phase | UTC Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penumbral eclipse begins | ~08:20 UTC | Moon enters Earth’s outer shadow; very faint dimming begins |
| Partial eclipse begins | ~09:25 UTC | Moon’s leading edge enters umbra; partial shadow visible |
| Total eclipse begins (totality starts) | ~10:34 UTC | Moon fully inside umbra; red coloration begins |
| Maximum eclipse (peak Blood Moon) | 11:38 UTC | Moon at deepest point in umbra; reddest appearance |
| Total eclipse ends (totality ends) | ~12:43 UTC | Moon’s leading edge exits umbra |
| Partial eclipse ends | ~13:52 UTC | Moon fully exits umbra |
| Penumbral eclipse ends | ~14:57 UTC | Moon fully exits the umbra |
Total duration of totality: approximately 58–63 minutes. Source: NASA Solar System Exploration eclipse catalog, Saros Series 133.
Eclipse Times by Major City (Local Time)
Because the eclipse peak occurs at 11:38 UTC on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, local times and visible phases differ significantly by region.
| Moon below the horizon; not visible | Time Zone | Totality Start (Local) | Peak (Local) | Totality End (Local) | Visible Phase |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | EST (UTC−5) | 5:34 AM | 6:38 AM | 7:43 AM | Full totality visible |
| Chicago | CST (UTC−6) | 4:34 AM | 5:38 AM | 6:43 AM | Full totality visible |
| Denver | MST (UTC−7) | 3:34 AM | 4:38 AM | 5:43 AM | Full totality visible |
| Los Angeles | PST (UTC−8) | 2:34 AM | 3:38 AM | 4:43 AM | Full totality visible; moon sets near dawn |
| Vancouver | PST (UTC−8) | 2:34 AM | 3:38 AM | 4:43 AM | Full totality visible |
| London | GMT (UTC+0) | 10:34 AM | 11:38 AM | 12:43 PM | Moon below horizon; not visible |
| Paris | CET (UTC+1) | 11:34 AM | 12:38 PM | 1:43 PM | Moon below horizon; not visible |
| São Paulo | BRT (UTC−3) | 7:34 AM | 8:38 AM | 9:43 AM | Full totality visible |
| Sydney | AEDT (UTC+11) | 9:34 PM | 10:38 PM | 11:43 PM | Moon below the horizon; not visible |
Observers in the Americas receive the best viewing conditions for this eclipse. The totality phase falls during pre-dawn morning hours across North America and morning hours across South America — when the moon is still above the horizon.
Western North America offers a unique photographic opportunity. In Los Angeles and similar Pacific Time locations, the moon is still visible above the western horizon during totality (approximately 2:34 AM to 4:43 AM PST), allowing photographers to capture the red moon low against the horizon at moonset during totality — a rare photographic alignment.
European and African observers cannot see this eclipse. At the time of peak totality (11:38 UTC), the moon is below the horizon across all of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Observers in the eastern United States may see the moon setting as totality begins or during the early part of totality.
Is the Lunar Eclipse Safe to View Without Eye Protection?
Yes. Total lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye without any eye protection. This distinguishes lunar eclipses from solar eclipses, which require certified solar viewing glasses (ISO 12312-2) at all phases except during the brief moment of totality.
During a lunar eclipse, no part of the sun is ever in the field of view. Observers look only at the moon, which reflects diffused, reddened light rather than direct sunlight during totality. Binoculars and telescopes also require no filters for lunar eclipse viewing.
| Event | Eye Protection Required | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Total lunar eclipse | No | Viewing only the moon; no direct sun in view |
| Partial lunar eclipse | No | Same as total; no direct sun in view |
| Total solar eclipse (totality) | No (only during 100% totality) | Brief phase when moon fully covers sun |
| Partial solar eclipse | Yes | Partial sun always exposed |
| Annular solar eclipse | Yes | Partial sun is always exposed |
Moon Phases March 2026 – Astronomy vs. Astrology Reference Table
Astronomical moon phase positions describe the physical location of the moon against background star constellations. Astrological positions use the Western tropical zodiac, a fixed 12-part system based on the sun’s position at the vernal equinox approximately 2,000 years ago. Due to Earth’s axial precession over 26,000 years, these two systems have shifted approximately 23–24 degrees apart.
| Phase | Date | Time (UTC) | Astronomical Constellation | Astrological Sign (Western Tropical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 11:38 UTC | Leo | Virgo |
| Last Quarter | Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | ~04:00 UTC | Ophiuchus | Sagittarius |
| New Moon | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 01:23 UTC | Pisces | Pisces |
| First Quarter | Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | ~19:00 UTC | Gemini | Aries |
The March 3 full moon is astronomically positioned in Leo but falls astrologically in Virgo under the Western tropical zodiac. Content from spiritual and wellness communities references the “Virgo Full Moon” using the astrological framework. Astronomical references and observatory sources use the Leo constellation.
New Moon March 2026 – Thursday, March 19, 2026
The new moon in March 2026 occurs on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 01:23 UTC. Due to negative UTC offsets in North America, this translates to Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026, for observers in US time zones.
| Time Zone | Local Date | Local Time |
|---|---|---|
| UTC | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 01:23 |
| GMT (UK) | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 01:23 |
| EST (Eastern US) | Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 20:23 |
| CST (Central US) | Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 19:23 |
| MST (Mountain US) | Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 18:23 |
| PST (Pacific US) | Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 17:23 |
| AEST (Australia Eastern) | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 11:23 |
The March 2026 new moon falls astronomically and astrologically within Pisces, the 12th sign of the zodiac. This is one of the few months when the astronomical constellation and astrological sign align closely.
The March 2026 New Moon and the Vernal Equinox
The new moon on Thursday, March 19, 2026, occurs one day before the vernal equinox on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 14:46 UTC. This proximity of the new moon to the spring equinox has practical relevance for calculating the date of Easter 2026.
Easter Sunday is calculated as the first Sunday following the first ecclesiastical full moon that occurs on or after March 21. The March 3 full moon precedes March 21, so the next relevant full moon for Easter 2026 calculation is the one following the March 19 new moon. Easter 2026 falls on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
The new moon on March 19 also falls during the same week as the vernal equinox. This conjunction of new moon and equinox creates a period of both lunar and solar transition, which is referenced in multiple cultural and spiritual traditions, including Ostara (a Neopagan celebration of the spring equinox) and Persian New Year (Nowruz), which begins on the day of the vernal equinox.
Vernal Equinox – Friday, March 20, 2026
The vernal equinox in 2026 occurs on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 14:46 UTC, marking the first day of astronomical spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of astronomical autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.
On the day of the vernal equinox, day and night are approximately equal in duration at most latitudes. The sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward, and sunrise and sunset occur closest to due east and due west, respectively.
| Hemisphere | Season Beginning on March 20, 2026 | Equinox Name |
|---|---|---|
| Northern | Spring | Vernal equinox |
| Southern | Autumn | Autumnal equinox |
The moon phase on Friday, March 20, 202,6 is a Waxing Crescent at approximately 1% illumination, one day after the new moon. No lunar eclipse or unusual lunar event coincides with the equinox in March 2026. The new moon precedes the equinox by one day.
The Worm Moon – March 2026 Cultural and Historical Context
The Worm Moon is the traditional name for the first full moon of March in North American almanac tradition, originating from Algonquin-speaking Indigenous peoples of northeastern North America. The name references the earthworm casts appearing in thawing soil as a seasonal indicator of warming temperatures.
Historical Documentation
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, published continuously since 1792, is the primary source for codifying Indigenous moon names into widely circulated annual reference calendars. The Worm Moon and its alternative names reflect the environmental conditions of early spring across different North American regions and Indigenous nations.
The name “Crow Moon” was used by tribes in areas where returning flocks of crows signaled the end of winter, rather than earthworm emergence. “Crust Moon” referred to the specific texture of late-winter snow — warm days and freezing nights create an icy crust on the snow surface — observed particularly in northern regions.
Sugar Moon and Maple Season
The Ojibwe name “Sugar Moon” references the maple sugaring season. Maple sap begins flowing when daytime temperatures rise above freezing while nights remain below freezing — conditions that typically align with the March full moon across eastern North America. This name remains in use in Canadian and northern US communities involved in maple production.
Moon Phases March 2026 – Gardening and Planting Guide
Biodynamic lunar gardening uses the moon’s phase and position to time planting, harvesting, and soil preparation. This method is documented in Rudolf Steiner’s 1924 agricultural lectures and developed further by Maria Thun, whose Biodynamic Calendar has been published annually since 1963.
March 2026 Biodynamic Planting Calendar
| Date Range | Moon Phase | Recommended Activity |
|---|---|---|
| March 1–2, 2026 | Waxing Gibbous | Above-ground crops; transplanting |
| March 3, 2026 | Full Moon | Harvest; avoid transplanting |
| March 4–10, 2026 | Waning Gibbous | Root crops; harvest; composting |
| March 11, 2026 | Last Quarter | Rest; soil preparation |
| March 12–18, 2026 | Waning Crescent | Root crops; weeding; pruning |
| March 19, 2026 | New Moon | Soil rest; avoid planting |
| March 20–24, 2026 | Waxing Crescent | Leafy vegetables; above-ground crops |
| March 25, 2026 | First Quarter | Fruiting plants; flowers |
| March 26–31, 2026 | Waxing Gibbous | Fruits; grains; transplanting |
Note: Biodynamic lunar gardening is a traditional practice. Peer-reviewed scientific research has not consistently confirmed significant effects of lunar phases on plant growth in controlled conditions, as documented in a meta-analysis published in Biological Agriculture & Horticulture (Vogt & Gorissen, 1995). Practitioners typically combine lunar timing with conventional agronomy for their climate zone and USDA hardiness zone.
The March 2026 vernal equinox on Friday, March 20, marks the official beginning of the spring planting season across the Northern Hemisphere. Last frost dates vary significantly by region: USDA Zone 7 (Mid-Atlantic US) averages a last frost date around April 15, while USDA Zone 9 (Southern California, Gulf Coast) is largely frost-free by mid-February.
Moon Phase on Specific Dates in March 2026
The following information identifies the lunar phase for specific dates in March 2026, useful for birthdays, planned events, gardening schedules, and photography planning.
Moon Phase on March 1, 2026
The moon phase on Sunday, March 1, 2026, is the Waxing Gibbous, with approximately 97% illumination. This is two days before the full moon. The moon rises in the late afternoon and sets in the early morning hours.
Moon Phase on March 3, 2026
The moon phase on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, is the Full Moon, coinciding with a total lunar eclipse. Illumination is 100%. The eclipse peak occurs at 11:38 UTC (6:38 AM EST). This is the most astronomically significant date in March 2026.
Moon Phase on March 10, 2026
The moon phase on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, is the Waning Gibbous, at approximately 58% illumination. This date falls one day before the last quarter.
Moon Phase on March 15, 2026
The moon phase on Sunday, March 15, 2026, is the Waning Crescent, with approximately 15% illumination. This date is four days before the new moon and features a slender crescent visible in the eastern pre-dawn sky.
Moon Phase on March 20, 2026
The moon phase on Friday, March 20, 2026, is the Waxing Crescent, with approximately 1% illumination. This date coincides with the vernal equinox at 14:46 UTC. The crescent moon is extremely thin and sets shortly after sunset.
Moon Phase on March 30, 2026
The moon phase on Monday, March 30, 2026, is the Waxing Gibbous, with approximately 91% illumination. This date falls five days before the April full moon.
Photographing the March 2026 Blood Moon Eclipse
The total lunar eclipse on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, offers exceptional photography conditions for observers across the Americas. The following guidance applies to both DSLR/mirrorless cameras and smartphone cameras.
Optimal Viewing and Photography Locations
Western North America offers the most dramatic photographic opportunity during the March 3, 2026, eclipse. In Pacific Time Zone locations, the moon is still above the western horizon during totality (approximately 2:34 AM to 4:43 AM PST), setting near or during the final stages of totality. A moon in totality, low on the horizon, appears larger due to the Moon Illusion (a perceptual effect) and can be photographed alongside landscape elements such as mountain ranges, city skylines, or ocean horizons.
Observers in Eastern Time Zone locations see the totality phase against a slightly brighter pre-dawn sky (5:34 AM to 7:43 AM EST), which may affect the apparent depth of the red color. Western locations with darker skies before dawn see the reddest, most visible totality.
Photography Settings Reference
| Use a tripod; bracket exposures | ISO | Aperture | Shutter Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSLR / Mirrorless (during totality) | 800–3200 | f/5.6–f/8 | 1–4 seconds | Use tripod; bracket exposures |
| DSLR / Mirrorless (partial phases) | 100–400 | f/8–f/11 | 1/250–1/60 second | Moon significantly brighter than during totality |
| Smartphone (during totality) | Use Pro/Manual mode; ISO 800–1600 | Widest available aperture | 1–2 seconds | Requires phone tripod; disable flash |
| Smartphone (partial phases) | Auto or Pro mode; ISO 200–400 | Auto | 1/100–1/500 second | Moon is significantly brighter than during totality |
The transition from partial to total eclipse is the most challenging phase to expose correctly. During partial phases, the bright uneclipsed portion of the moon overexposes easily. Use exposure compensation (−1.5 to −2 stops) and bracket multiple frames. During totality, expose for the red lunar surface.
A telephoto lens of 400mm or longer (full-frame equivalent) is recommended to fill a meaningful portion of the frame with the moon. Smartphones can photograph the eclipse, but produce a small moon unless paired with an optical telephoto attachment.
March 2026 Moon Phases – Spiritual and Astrological Meanings
The following section presents the spiritual and metaphysical interpretations associated with the March 2026 moon phases. These are rooted in Western astrological tradition, Neopagan seasonal celebrations, and modern spiritual practice. They are presented as cultural and traditional information.
Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse in Virgo – Tuesday, March 3, 2026
In Western astrological tradition, the full moon in Virgo is associated with themes of analysis, health, service, daily routines, and practical refinement. The concurrent total lunar eclipse amplifies these themes, as eclipses in astrology are associated with accelerated endings, revelations, and significant transitions.
Virgo is an Earth sign ruled by Mercury in traditional astrology. Themes associated with the March 3 Virgo full moon eclipse in astrological traditions include:
- Completion and release of habits or health patterns
- Review of work processes and daily systems
- Attention to physical well-being and self-care routines
- Clarity in communication and analytical thinking
The astrological interpretation (Virgo) differs from the astronomical position (Leo constellation) due to axial precession, as described in the astronomy vs. astrology table above.
New Moon in Pisces – Thursday, March 19, 2026
In Western astrological tradition, a new moon in Pisces is associated with themes of compassion, intuition, spirituality, creativity, and the dissolution of boundaries. Pisces is a Water sign ruled by Neptune in modern Western astrology and by Jupiter in traditional astrology.
The March 19 new moon occurs one day before the vernal equinox, placing it in a transitional position between the end of the astrological year (Pisces is the 12th sign) and the beginning of the new cycle (Aries begins at the equinox). Several spiritual traditions reference this as a period of closure before renewal.
Ostara – The Spring Equinox Connection
Ostara is a Neopagan celebration of the vernal equinox, observed on Friday, March 20, 2026. It is one of eight seasonal festivals (Sabbats) in the Neopagan Wheel of the Year. The proximity of the new moon on March 19 to the equinox on March 20 is referenced in Neopagan traditions as a convergence of lunar and solar cycles at the seasonal transition point.
Comparing March 2026 Moon Phases to February and April 2026
March 2026 contains an exceptional astronomical event (total lunar eclipse) absent from both February and April 2026. The primary moon phases for the surrounding months are as follows.
| Month | Full Moon | New Moon | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 2026 | Saturday, February 1, 2026 | Sunday, February 15, 2026 | Partial lunar eclipse (minor) |
| March 2026 | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Total lunar eclipse; Vernal equinox |
| April 2026 | Thursday, April 2, 2026 | Saturday, April 18, 2026 | No major eclipse |
March 2026 stands as the highest-profile lunar month of the year for observable events across the Northern Hemisphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moon Phases in March 2026
What are the moon phases in March 2026?
March 2026 contains all four primary lunar phases: Full Moon (Tuesday, March 3), Last Quarter (Wednesday, March 11), New Moon (Thursday, March 19), and First Quarter (Wednesday, March 25). The month also contains all eight phases of the full lunar cycle.
When is the full moon in March 2026?
The full moon in March 2026 is on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:38 UTC. It coincides with a total lunar eclipse, making it a Blood Moon. In Eastern Time (EST), the full moon peak occurs at 6:38 AM.
Is there a lunar eclipse in March 2026?
Yes. A total lunar eclipse occurs on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Totality lasts approximately 58–63 minutes, with maximum eclipse at 11:38 UTC. The eclipse is visible across the Americas in its full totality phase.
Why does the moon turn red during a lunar eclipse?
The moon turns red during a total lunar eclipse because of Rayleigh scattering. Earth’s atmosphere bends and filters sunlight around the planet. Blue wavelengths scatter away while red and orange wavelengths pass through and illuminate the lunar surface during totality.
Do I need special glasses to watch the March 3, 2026, lunar eclipse?
No. Lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. No eye protection is required. This is different from solar eclipses, which require certified ISO 12312-2 solar glasses except during the brief moment of total solar eclipse.
When is the new moon in March 2026?
The new moon in March 2026 is on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 01:23 UTC. In North American time zones, this falls on Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026.
What is the Worm Moon?
The Worm Moon is the traditional name for the March full moon, originating from Algonquin-speaking Indigenous North American peoples. It refers to earthworm casts appearing in thawing soil as an early spring indicator. Alternative names include Crow Moon, Crust Moon, Sap Moon, and Sugar Moon.
What is special about the March 2026 new moon?
The March 2026 new moon on Thursday, March 19, 2026, occurs one day before the vernal equinox (Friday, March 20, 2026). This proximity has relevance for Easter date calculation and is referenced in multiple spiritual and cultural traditions marking the spring seasonal transition.
When is the spring equinox in 2026?
The vernal equinox in 2026 occurs on Friday, March 20, 202,6 at 14:46 UTC, marking the first day of astronomical spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The moon is a very thin Waxing Crescent (approximately 1% illumination) on this date.
Is there a supermoon in March 2026?
No. The March 3, 2026, full moon occurs at approximately average Earth-Moon distance and is not classified as a supermoon. It is also not classified as a micromoon. The moon’s apparent size during this eclipse is near the average.
Where is the March 3, 202,6 lunar eclipse visible?
The total lunar eclipse is visible across the Americas, including all of North America, Central America, and South America, during the totality phase. Western North America sees the moon above the horizon for the full duration of totality. Europe and Africa cannot see this eclipse because the moon is below the horizon during totality from those locations. Most of Asia and the Pacific also miss totality.
What moon phase is March 15, 2026?
The moon phase on Sunday, March 15, 2026, is the Waning Crescent, with approximately 15% illumination. The moon is visible as a thin crescent in the eastern sky before sunrise.
What moon phase is March 20, 2026?
The moon phase on Friday, March 20, 2026, is the Waxing Crescent at approximately 1% illumination, one day after the new moon. This date is also the vernal equinox.
March 2026 Moon Phases – Quick Reference Summary
| Pre-dawn, the moon sets during the exit phases | Date | Time (UTC) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Moon – Worm Moon / Blood Moon | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 11:38 UTC | Total lunar eclipse; visible Americas |
| Eclipse peak | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 11:38 UTC | 58–63 min totality; safe naked-eye viewing |
| Last Quarter | Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | ~04:00 UTC | Standard phase |
| New Moon | Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 01:23 UTC | Pisces; one day before equinox |
| Vernal Equinox | Friday, March 20, 2026 | 14:46 UTC | First day of spring (Northern Hemisphere) |
| First Quarter | Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | ~19:00 UTC | Standard phase |
| US/Canada: Totality in EST | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 5:34 AM – 7:43 AM EST | Pre-dawn; moon sets during exit phases |
| US/Canada: Totality in PST | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 2:34 AM – 4:43 AM PST | Moon visible on western horizon |
| Europe visibility | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | Moon below horizon | Moon below the horizon |
Lunar phase times and eclipse data in this article are sourced from NASA’s Moon Phase and Libration database, the NASA Solar System Exploration eclipse catalog (Saros Series 133), and the US Naval Observatory (USNO) Astronomical Almanac. Vernal equinox time is sourced from the United States Naval Observatory. Astrological positions use the Western tropical zodiac system. Cultural moon name data references the Old Farmer’s Almanac. Biodynamic gardening data references Maria Thun’s Biodynamic Calendar methodology.
