Lunar Eclipse on March 3: When and How to Watch the ‘Blood Moon’ in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana !

Science Discoveries

Lunar Eclipse on March 3: When and How to Watch the ‘Blood Moon’ in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana !

Prime vista News

A total lunar eclipse on March 3 will create a rare ‘Blood Moon’. Check exact moonrise timings, visibility window, and safe viewing tips for Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana.

A spectacular total lunar eclipse popularly known as a “Blood Moon” will occur on March 3, offering sky watchers a brief but dramatic celestial display. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the eclipse will be visible from most parts of India, including Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana.

However, residents in northwest India will experience the phenomenon differently compared to other regions. By the time the moon rises in this part of the country, the total phase of the eclipse will already be ending. This means viewers will see the moon emerging from Earth’s shadow, glowing in a deep copper-red hue, but only for a limited window before the eclipse concludes at 18:48 IST.

With less than half an hour of viewing time in many cities, timing and a clear eastern horizon will be crucial.

What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse occurs on a full moon night when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its darkest shadow called the umbra across the entire lunar surface. As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, it bends and scatters, allowing only red wavelengths to reach the moon. This gives the moon its distinctive reddish color, hence the term “Blood Moon.”

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. No protective glasses or special equipment are required.

The March 3 eclipse will also be visible from East Asia, Australia, the Pacific region and parts of the Americas, making it a globally observed event.

Lunar Eclipse Timeline (IST)

Here are the key phases of the eclipse in Indian Standard Time:

  • 15:20 IST — Eclipse begins (Penumbral phase starts; subtle darkening begins)
  • 16:34 IST — Total phase begins (Moon fully enters Earth’s umbra; peak red colour)
  • 17:33 IST — Total phase ends
  • 18:19–18:30 IST — Moonrise in northwest India (final partial phase visible)
  • 18:48 IST — Eclipse ends completely

Because moonrise in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana occurs close to the end of the eclipse, viewers will only witness the final partial phase, when the moon is still partially covered by Earth’s shadow.

City-Wise Moonrise Timings and Viewing Window

Chandigarh

  • Moonrise: 18:19 IST
  • Eclipse ends: 18:48 IST
  • Viewing window: ~29 minutes

Punjab

  • Jalandhar: 18:25 IST (23-minute window)
  • Amritsar: 18:30 IST (18-minute window)

Haryana & Delhi NCR

  • North Haryana: 18:20 IST (28-minute window)
  • Delhi/NCR: 18:25 IST (23-minute window)

The later the moonrise, the shorter the visible eclipse window.

What Will You Actually See?

By the time the moon rises in northwest India, the total (deepest red) phase will have ended. However, the moon will still be partially inside Earth’s umbral shadow, meaning it will appear darker than usual with a noticeable reddish-orange tint along one edge.

The effect will be most striking just as the moon clears the horizon.

Viewing Advisory and Tips

1. No Special Equipment Needed

Total lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye. Binoculars or a small telescope can enhance details and colour contrast but are not necessary.

2. Step Out Before 18:15 IST

Since the viewing window is short, it is advisable to reach your chosen spot at least 10–15 minutes before moonrise.

3. Choose an Open Eastern Horizon

The moon will rise low in the eastern sky. Buildings, trees and urban structures can obstruct your view. Open fields, rooftops and elevated areas offer the best vantage points.

4. Avoid Heavy Light Pollution

Rural or semi-urban areas will provide clearer and richer views. City lights can wash out the subtle reddish tones of the partially eclipsed moon.

5. Do Not Delay

The eclipse ends at 18:48 IST. After that, the moon will gradually regain its normal bright white appearance.

Key Facts About the March 3 Eclipse

  • Total duration: 3 hours 28 minutes
  • Total (Blood Moon) phase duration: 59 minutes
  • Eclipse magnitude: 1.155
  • Next lunar eclipse visible from India: July 6, 2028 (Partial lunar eclipse)

The last total lunar eclipse visible from India occurred on September 7–8, 2025. The next opportunity to witness a total lunar eclipse from Indian skies may take several years, making this event particularly significant for astronomy enthusiasts.

Earlier Coverage : ‘When You See a Missile in Front of You…’: Indian Passengers Recall Abu Dhabi Ordeal After Safe Arrival in Bengaluru

For residents of Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana, the March 3 lunar eclipse will be brief but memorable. With clear skies and proper timing, sky watchers can catch the moon rising in a dramatic reddish glow a rare celestial moment that lasts less than half an hour.