“Blood Moon” lights up skies during total lunar eclipse on March 3

Residents of several parts of the world, including Thailand, were able to observe a total lunar eclipse on March 3. During the initial and final stages of the phenomenon, the Moon turned a distinctive “blood-red” color and was visible to the naked eye.

Russian outlet Gazeta.ru reports that the main phase of the eclipse lasted from 18:04 to 19:05 local time (15:04–16:05 Baku time). The best viewing conditions began around 18:15 (15:15 Baku time). The most favorable conditions for observing the so-called “Blood Moon” were in East Asia, the Pacific region, as well as North and South America.

In Russia, the eclipse was visible only in the country’s eastern regions, particularly in the Far East.

So why does the moon turn red? As Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, it blocks direct sunlight. But a little light still sneaks through Earth’s atmosphere, where blue light gets scattered, and red light bends around the planet. That reddish glow reaches the Moon, giving it that coppery look or “blood moon” glow.

Meanwhile, NASA said the eclipse was visible across much of North America and parts of Central Asia, while South America saw a partial eclipse. It will not be visible in Europe or Africa.

The next total lunar eclipse is expected on New Year’s Eve, from December 31, 2028, to January 1, 2029.

By Khagan Isayev