Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply curious, you’ve probably heard about the next major astronomical phenomenon: the blood moon! After the Super Wolf Moon, our satellite will turn red on the night of March 2 to 3, 2026. But what mystery lies behind this spectacle, and will we be able to observe it from Marseille?
Blood Moon: a rare and mesmerizing astronomical phenomenon
On the night of March 2-3, 2026, celestial magic will work its wonders to offer a fascinating spectacle: a total lunar eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon. The satellite then plunges into the shadow of our planet. But instead of disappearing, it takes on a dark red hue. This is due to the Earth’s atmosphere, which filters sunlight and only allows red wavelengths to pass through to the Moon.
The phenomenon will reach its peak for about an hour, around 6:30 a.m. EST, lighting up the sky with an intense scarlet color. Lasting more than five hours in total, this eclipse is an exceptional event. We will have to wait until December 31, 2028, to see another Blood Moon of this magnitude.
Will the blood moon on March 3 be visible from Marseille?
Unfortunately, France will be disappointed. Despite the intensity of the phenomenon,the total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will not be visible from France. According to astronomical calculations, the Moon will be below the horizon at the crucial moment of the total phase. The show will take place, but outside our European field of vision.
The luckiest observers will be on the other side of the globe: in North America, Central America, Australia, and East Asia. That’s where the Moon will rise high enough in the sky to reveal its full glowing splendor.
Visible planets and Super Moon: upcoming astronomical phenomena
What are the next astronomical phenomena not to be missed from France? Make a note of this upcoming event: a rare planetary alignment will take place on February 28, 2026. For the second, you’ll need a little more patience: the Beaver Super Moon will light up the sky on November 24, 2026.