A total lunar eclipse will occur across multiple time zones on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with the Moon moving from right to left as it passes through the Earth’s shadow.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a total lunar eclipse takes place when the entire Moon enters the Earth’s umbral shadow, while a partial eclipse occurs when only a portion of the Moon is obscured.

In a post on X, the IMD said the March 3 eclipse will have a deep magnitude of 1.155, making it a significant astronomical event. The phenomenon will be visible across India, as well as in Eastern Asia, Australia and the Americas.

Within India, the viewing experience will differ by region. Most parts of the country will witness the ending phase of the eclipse at moonrise. However, in parts of Northeast India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, observers will also be able to see the end of the totality phase.

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As per Indian Standard Time (IST), the eclipse will begin at 3:20 PM, with the totality phase starting at 4:34 PM. The Moon will remain completely within Earth’s shadow until 5:33 PM, and the entire eclipse will conclude at 6:48 PM.