How to watch the total lunar eclipse

Early tomorrow morning, skywatchers across the country will be treated to a total lunar eclipse, often called a “blood moon.”

During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. As the Moon passes fully into Earth’s shadow, it will take on a deep reddish or coppery glow. Tomorrow morning's eclipse will be the last one visible for the lower 48 until 2029.

You will start to see a shift in the moon's color during the totality. Totality begins when the Moon is completely inside Earth’s inner shadow, turning a deep red or copper color. This phase starts at approximately 3:04 a.m. PST, 4:04 a.m. MST, 5:04 a.m. CST, and 6:04 a.m. EST.

The greatest eclipse follows at 3:33 a.m. PST, 4:33 a.m. MST, 5:33 a.m. CST, and 6:33 a.m. EST, marking the midpoint of totality when the Moon is deepest in Earth’s shadow and often displays its richest color. Totality ends at about 4:03 a.m. PST, 5:03 a.m. MST, 6:03 a.m. CST, and 7:03 a.m. EST, as the Moon begins to exit Earth’s umbra and the red hue gradually fades.

Check the WeatherRadar for sky conditions before heading out. Also, you'll want to check sunrise and moonset times using our astro function, especially if you are on the East Coast. East Coast cities may be treated to a rare sight called a selenelion, where you'll briefly be able to see the sun rising and the totally eclipsed moon setting on opposite horizons.