A total lunar eclipse will be visible across Japan on March 3, turning the full moon a reddish-black hue. This celestial event, where the Earth passes between the sun and moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface, hasn’t been seen nationally since September 8, 2023.
According to the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, the moon will begin to enter the Earth’s shadow around 6:50 PM, with the total eclipse phase lasting approximately one hour, starting at 8:04 PM. During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth’s atmosphere acts like a lens, bending red light towards the moon, resulting in the distinctive “copper” color.
The next opportunity to view a total lunar eclipse from anywhere in Japan won’t be until January 1, 2029. That eclipse will begin shortly after midnight, at 12:07 AM, offering a unique start to the latest year.
For those interested in learning more about the upcoming eclipse, the National Astronomical Observatory has released detailed explanatory materials. The observatory’s calendar calculation website similarly provides information on moonrise and planet visibility, as well as specific forecasts for viewing the eclipse in different locations.
The eclipse is expected to be particularly noticeable as it occurs around the time of Hinamatsuri, a traditional Japanese holiday celebrating girls. While weather conditions may obscure the view in some areas, the timing of the eclipse allows for relatively simple observation without staying up late.
