Chandra Grahan on March 3: How to watch the total lunar eclipse in India, visibility and key details
This March, if you enjoy looking up at the sky now and then, there’s something worth marking on your calendar. On March 3, 2026, the first lunar eclipse of the year, also known as Chandra Grahan, will take place. It’s one of those simple sky events that doesn’t require any planning or special gear, just a clear evening and a few free minutes.
(Source: Time and Date)
Start of penumbral phase: 4:58 PM IST
Start of totality: 4:58 PM IST
End of penumbral phase: 7:53 PM IST
Since the Moon will already be in eclipse as it rises in many parts of India, only the final portion will be visible, according to a report by The Times of India Astrology dated January 30. The most noticeable part will be around sunset, and the visible window will last roughly 20 minutes as the Moon gradually comes out of the Earth’s shadow.
So you won’t need to stay up late. Just step out around dusk and look up.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon. As a result, the Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, making it appear darker. In some cases, the Moon can even look slightly reddish.
While lunar eclipses happen a few times every year, not all of them are visible from India. That is what makes this one a little special.
No special equipment is required. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. If the sky is clear, simply step outside and look at the Moon.
Binoculars can enhance the view, but they are not necessary.
Apart from being a visual treat, lunar eclipses are a reminder of how precisely the Sun, Earth, and Moon move in space. For many, they also hold cultural and traditional significance.
The March 3 eclipse may be brief in India, but it is still a good opportunity to pause, look up at the sky, and witness a natural celestial event.
Do not forget to check the weather. Clear skies will make all the difference.
Thumb image: Canva (for representative purposes only)
March 3 lunar eclipse timings in India (IST)
(Source: Time and Date)
Start of penumbral phase: 4:58 PM IST
Start of totality: 4:58 PM IST
End of penumbral phase: 7:53 PM IST
Since the Moon will already be in eclipse as it rises in many parts of India, only the final portion will be visible, according to a report by The Times of India Astrology dated January 30. The most noticeable part will be around sunset, and the visible window will last roughly 20 minutes as the Moon gradually comes out of the Earth’s shadow.
So you won’t need to stay up late. Just step out around dusk and look up.
What happens during a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon. As a result, the Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, making it appear darker. In some cases, the Moon can even look slightly reddish.
While lunar eclipses happen a few times every year, not all of them are visible from India. That is what makes this one a little special.
How to watch it
No special equipment is required. Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. If the sky is clear, simply step outside and look at the Moon.
Binoculars can enhance the view, but they are not necessary.
Why it matters
Apart from being a visual treat, lunar eclipses are a reminder of how precisely the Sun, Earth, and Moon move in space. For many, they also hold cultural and traditional significance.
The March 3 eclipse may be brief in India, but it is still a good opportunity to pause, look up at the sky, and witness a natural celestial event.
Do not forget to check the weather. Clear skies will make all the difference.
Thumb image: Canva (for representative purposes only)
end of article
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