Set your alarms! On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the full “Worm Moon” will slip fully into Earth’s shadow for a total lunar eclipse (aka “Blood Moon”). This is the last total lunar eclipse visible from North America until June 2029, so it’s a must-see pre-dawn treat.
Exact Times for Clifton Park, NY (EST):
- 3:44 a.m. — the Moon starts entering Earth’s faint outer shadow
- 4:50 a.m. — Earth’s dark umbra starts covering the Moon, turning it reddish
- 6:04 a.m. — Totality begins — The entire Moon turns a striking copper-red “Blood Moon”
- ~6:26 a.m. — Maximum eclipse (peak red color)
- ~6:29 a.m. — Moonset (during early totality)
Key note: The Moon will be very low in the western sky by the time totality hits, right before sunrise (~6:30–6:40 a.m.). You’ll catch the start of the dramatic red phase low on the horizon before it sets. A crystal-clear western view is essential!
Best Places to Watch Around Clifton Park & Nearby:
- Garnsey Park — Rolling hills, open meadows, and ridge trails with fantastic unobstructed western views toward the Mohawk Valley. Elevated spots are perfect.
- Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve — Wide-open fields and trails along the Mohawk River — one of the best local dark-sky-ish spots with minimal obstructions.
- Clifton Park Town Park or Clifton Commons fields — Easy-access open spaces.
- Your own backyard or any neighborhood spot with a clear line of sight west (away from tall trees/houses).
Quick Tips:
- No eclipse glasses needed — safe to watch with the naked eye
- Binoculars, a small telescope, or your phone camera (tripod recommended for photos) will make the red glow pop.
- Bundle up — temps will be around 20°F and windy.
- Check the forecast; we need clear skies.
See you out there — or at least waving from our yards at 6 a.m.!
