A total lunar eclipse cast a "blood moon" over the night sky, captured in Beijing, China, in September last year. Photo: Getty ImagesIt might pay to stay up late next week with a total lunar eclipse taking place. According to Stardome, the only lunar eclipse of 2026 will begin on Tuesday, March 3, about 9.45pm. "In just 10 days, Aotearoa New Zealand will have a front-row seat to witness a total lunar eclipse in its entirety - the only lunar eclipse of 2026." "There will not be another total lunar eclipse until 2028, and we are among the few locations able to watch the entire event unfold over the Pacific.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 23, 2026 11:06 UTC