Lunar eclipse 2025: When is the next Blood Moon? Total lunar eclipse thrills the world but US must wait until 2026

Stargazers across Asia, Europe, and Africa were treated to a rare celestial spectacle on 7-8 September, as the Moon turned a deep crimson during a total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a “Blood Moon.” It was the longest such eclipse since 2022, lasting 82 minutes, drawing awe from millions who witnessed the eerie glow overhead.

The striking phenomenon occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, with Earth casting its shadow across the lunar surface. The result is an otherworldly red hue that has captivated human imagination for millennia. But this time, the show was not visible from the United States, where the eclipse took place during daylight hours. For skywatchers in North America who had to settle for livestreams or photos from abroad, the big question is: when will the next Blood Moon be visible in the US?

Skywatchers across the US will have to wait till next year.

When is the next total lunar eclipse in US?

According to timeanddate, the next total lunar eclipse visible in the United States will occur on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. From North America, South America, Australia, and East Asia, the lunar surface will turn reddish for 58 minutes, as per Forbes.

The longitude will determine visibility. While the western US and Canada will witness the entire spectacle high in the sky, eastern cities like New York will only witness a small portion of totality before moonset. The best chances of a clear sky during that time of year are found in Hawaii and the arid Southwest US.

How does a total lunar eclipse happen?

During a lunar eclipse, which can sometimes occur in a series of three within a year, the Moon gradually enters the edge of Earth’s shadow. As it dims, it takes on a reddish hue, eventually turning fully red when completely within the shadow; this phase is called totality. Known as a “Blood Moon,” the effect occurs because sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere, the same phenomenon that makes sunsets appear red, and refracts onto the lunar surface.