ISLAMABAD: The first total lunar eclipse of 2026, commonly known as the “Blood Moon”, will occur today, on March 3, offering sky watchers a striking celestial display.
Experts say the moon will appear reddish during the eclipse for a short period. They also confirmed that watching a lunar eclipse is completely safe without any protective equipment.
The Climate Data Processing Centre of the Pakistan Meteorological Department has verified that the eclipse will take place on March 3, 2026.
This event comes about two weeks after the first solar eclipse of the year on February 17, which was not visible in Pakistan.
Will the Lunar Eclipse Be Visible in Pakistan?
According to the Met Office, the total lunar eclipse will be partially visible in Pakistan at the time of moonrise.
Other Regions Where It Will Be Seen
The eclipse will also be visible in eastern parts of Europe, Asia, Australia, North America, South America, as well as over the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, and in the Arctic and Antarctica.
Lunar Eclipse Timings in Pakistan
The penumbral phase will begin at 1:44 pm Pakistan Standard Time. The partial eclipse will start at 2:50 pm, followed by the total eclipse at 4:05 pm.
The eclipse will reach its peak at 4:34 pm. The total phase will end at 5:03 pm, while the partial phase will conclude at 6:17 pm.
The penumbral phase will end at 7:23 pm.
Second Lunar Eclipse of 2026
The second lunar eclipse of the year is expected on August 28, 2026. It will be visible in Europe, western Asia, Africa, North and South America, over the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and in Antarctica. However, it will not be visible in Pakistan.