Tonight, the night skies over Maine will showcase a celestial spectacle as residents prepare to witness a total lunar eclipse, affectionately known as a ‘blood moon’. Starting at 11:57 PM EDT on March 13, the eclipse enters its stunning phase with the onset of the penumbral phase, but the real enchantment begins at 2:26 AM EDT on March 14 when the totality occurs.
During a total lunar eclipse, Earth's atmosphere plays a starring role. As sunlight passes through, it scatters, filtering out blue wavelengths and allowing only the reddish ones to reach the moon. This magical effect gives the moon its eerie reddish or coppery glow known as a blood moon.
The best part about this phenomenon? You don't need any special equipment to view it. Just find a spot with minimal light pollution, and you're set for an unforgettable late-night celestial show. Key locations such as Bangor, Augusta, and Portland are perfect vantage points, with the eclipse expected to provide 100% obscuration over these areas.
People all over Maine will get the rare chance to enjoy this cosmic dance, as the totality lasts for about 3 hours and 38 minutes, ensuring that night owls and early risers alike get a glimpse.
But don't worry if you miss out on tonight's spectacle. The next opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse from the Americas comes on March 3, 2026. So set your alarms, prepare some hot cocoa, and get ready to gaze at the universe's wonders right from your backyard.