08/26/2026
August 27–28 brings a dramatic lunar eclipse to the night sky, but how much you see will depend on where you are in North America.
During the event, Earth’s shadow will move across the Moon, covering as much as 96.2% of its surface at maximum eclipse. That will leave only a small bright portion visible while much of the Moon takes on a deep copper-red color.
The best views will depend on your location.
Parts of the East Coast and Midwest are expected to have the opportunity to follow the eclipse through its major stages, while observers farther west may see only the earlier phases before moonset.
For viewers in central parts of North America, the timing could allow them to catch the most dramatic part of the eclipse.
The good news is that lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with your naked eyes. Unlike a solar eclipse, you don’t need special protective glasses.
Binoculars or a telescope can make the Moon’s craters and changing colors even more impressive, but they’re not necessary.
So check your local moonrise and moonset times, watch the weather, and find a spot with a clear view of the sky.
One night.
One Moon.
And almost the entire lunar surface disappearing into Earth’s shadow.
