Chandra Grahan Today: When And Where To Watch In India - Everything You Need To Know

A spectacular total lunar eclipse will light up the skies on 3 March, giving millions of skywatchers a chance to witness one of nature's most beautiful astronomical events.

As excitement builds, many people are searching for the exact start and end times and how they can view this rare sight.

Here is everything you need to know in simple terms.

What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon. During this alignment, the Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the Moon.
There are two main types of lunar eclipses:

Partial lunar eclipse: Only part of the Moon passes through Earth's dark shadow.
Total lunar eclipse: The entire Moon moves into the darkest part of Earth's shadow, known as the umbra.

When the Moon is fully covered by the Earth's shadow, it turns a deep reddish colour. This glowing red appearance is why it is often called a "Blood Moon."

The red colour appears because sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere bends and filters out blue light, allowing red light to reach the Moon.

Who Will Be Able to See It?

This total lunar eclipse will be visible in different stages across North America, Australia and East Asia. According to astronomical data platform Time and Date, more than three billion people could witness at least part of the event.

This eclipse is especially important because it will be the last total lunar eclipse until New Year's Eve 2028-2029.

Total Lunar Eclipse 2026: Timings in India (IST)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has shared the official timings for observers in India:

Eclipse Begins: 3:20 PM
Totality Starts: 4:34 PM
Totality Ends: 5:33 PM
Eclipse Ends: 6:48 PM

The magnitude of the eclipse will be 1.155, which means the Moon will be deeply immersed in Earth's shadow.

Duration of the Eclipse

Total duration: 5 hours, 39 minutes
Totality phase: 58 minutes
Partial phases: 2 hours, 29 minutes
Penumbral phases: 2 hours, 12 minutes

The totality phase - when the Moon appears red - will last for nearly one hour.

How to Watch the Eclipse in India

Most parts of India will see the ending stages of the eclipse at the time of moonrise. However, some areas in North-East India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands may also witness the end of the total phase.

An IMD official stated that weather conditions are expected to remain generally clear to partly cloudy in several eastern regions, including Shillong and nearby areas. Clear skies around sunset will provide a better chance to see the Moon emerging from Earth's shadow with its reddish glow.

To watch the eclipse:

No special equipment is needed.
It is safe to view with the naked eye.
Binoculars or a small telescope can give a clearer view.

Choose a location with a clear view of the eastern horizon.

Why This Eclipse Is Special

Total lunar eclipses do not happen very often. With the next one scheduled years away, this event offers a rare opportunity for astronomy lovers, photographers and families to enjoy a dramatic celestial show.

As the Moon slowly changes colour and glows red in the evening sky, it will serve as a reminder of the fascinating movements of our solar system.

Make sure to note the timings and look up - this "Blood Moon" promises to be a sight worth watching.