A total lunar eclipse, also known as Chandra Grahan or the “Blood Moon,” will occur on Tuesday, March 3. The celestial event will unfold through the afternoon and evening hours, with different visibility across regions of India.
For Guwahati and parts of Northeast India, viewers may catch the final phase of the eclipse shortly after moonrise, though the maximum point of the eclipse will not be visible from the city.
A total lunar eclipse will take place on March 3, with the eclipse beginning at 3:20 PM IST and totality lasting from 4:34 PM to 5:33 PM. In Guwahati, the maximum phase at 5:25 PM will not be visible as the Moon will be below the horizon. Residents may see the final phase after moonrise.
What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the entire Moon passes into the Earth’s umbral shadow. During this phase, the Moon may appear reddish, leading to the term “Blood Moon.”
A partial lunar eclipse, by contrast, occurs when only part of the Moon enters the Earth’s shadow.
March 3 Eclipse Timings (IST)
According to Indian Standard Time, the eclipse will follow this schedule:
- Eclipse begins: 3:20 PM
- Totality starts: 4:34 PM
- Maximum eclipse: 5:25 PM
- Totality ends: 5:33 PM
- Eclipse concludes: 6:47 PM
The maximum point at 5:25 PM will not be visible in Guwahati, as the Moon will still be below the horizon at that time.
What Guwahati Can Expect
According to timeanddate.com, the Moon will be near or below the horizon in Guwahati during the peak phase.
However, parts of Northeast India, including Guwahati, may be able to observe the ending phase of the eclipse at the time of moonrise.
Residents are advised to:
- Choose a location with a clear view of the eastern horizon
- Avoid tall buildings or tree cover
- Consider elevated areas for better visibility
Since the Moon will be close to the horizon, an unobstructed eastward view will improve chances of catching the final stage.
Visibility Across India
In most regions of India, only the ending phase of the eclipse will be visible at moonrise.
However, in certain parts of Northeast India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the end of the totality phase may also be visible.
Globally, the eclipse will be visible from North America, Australia, and East Asia.
Safe to Watch Without Equipment
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is safe to observe with the naked eye.
No protective glasses or special equipment are required. Binoculars or telescopes may enhance viewing, but they are not necessary.
Why This Matters for Guwahati Skywatchers
Lunar eclipses are relatively rare celestial events and often draw interest from astronomy enthusiasts and families alike.
For Guwahati residents, even catching the final phase of the eclipse at moonrise offers an opportunity to witness a significant astronomical phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Blood Moon be fully visible in Guwahati?
No. The maximum eclipse at 5:25 PM will not be visible in Guwahati as the Moon will be below the horizon. Only the ending phase may be seen at moonrise.
Is it safe to watch the lunar eclipse with the naked eye?
Yes. A lunar eclipse is completely safe to view without protective glasses.