Last Updated on March 2, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Early risers in Arizona are in for a celestial show.

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, a total lunar eclipse will be visible across much of North America — including Phoenixand the Valley. During this event, the Moon will pass completely into Earth’s shadow, turning a deep copper-red color often called a “Blood Moon.”

Here’s what you need to know.

🌍 What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse happens when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, with Earth positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon. As the Moon moves into Earth’s darkest shadow (the umbra), it doesn’t disappear — instead, it glows red.

That reddish color comes from sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere — essentially, we’re seeing all the world’s sunrises and sunsets projected onto the Moon at once.

🕒 Phoenix Viewing Times (MST)

Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time in March, so these times are in Mountain Standard Time (MST).

• 1:44 a.m. – Penumbral eclipse begins (subtle dimming begins)
• 2:50 a.m. – Partial eclipse begins (Earth’s shadow becomes clearly visible)
• 4:04 a.m. – Totality begins 🌕
• 4:34 a.m. – Greatest eclipse
• 5:03 a.m. – Totality ends
• 6:18 a.m. – Partial eclipse ends
• 7:20 a.m. – Penumbral eclipse ends

The most dramatic portion — totality — lasts nearly one hour.

🌅 Where to Look in Phoenix

The eclipse happens in the pre-dawn hours, so the Moon will be low in the western sky as it sets.

For the best view:

• Find a location with a clear western horizon
• Avoid city light glare if possible
• Consider desert viewpoints, parks, or elevated areas around the Valley

Because the Moon will be setting as the Sun begins to rise, the backdrop of early morning twilight could make for stunning photography.

🔭 Do You Need Special Equipment?

No.

Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. However:

• Binoculars enhance color detail
• A small telescope reveals subtle shadow gradients
• A tripod and DSLR or smartphone with night mode can capture impressive images

🌎 Why This Eclipse Matters

This will be one of the most accessible celestial events of 2026 for Arizona residents. Total lunar eclipses don’t happen every year in the same location, and the timing — just before sunrise — adds dramatic visual contrast.

If skies are clear, Phoenix could have a spectacular view.

📌 Quick Viewing Reminder for Phoenix

Set your alarm for around 3:45 a.m.

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Step outside by 4:00 a.m.

Look west

Watch the Moon turn red

No tickets. No crowds. Just the sky putting on a show.

For more science, space, and Arizona skywatching coverage, visit STM Daily News.

Related Coverage

• NASA: What Is a Lunar Eclipse?
• Time and Date: March 3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse Details
• Sky & Telescope: How to Watch the March 2026 Lunar Eclipse
• Space.com: Where and When to See the 2026 Blood Moon
• STM Daily News – Science & Space Coverage

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What’s Trending in Travel in 2026

(Feature Impact) After years of fast-paced itineraries and social media-inspired vacations, travelers are looking to slow down in 2026, instead focusing on more personal, immersive experiences.

That’s not to say Americans will be looking to travel any less – just more intentionally. Despite economic, political and cultural shifts, travel shows no signs of slowing down this year. In fact, according to a survey conducted on behalf of ALG Vacations, 100% of respondents plan to take a vacation in the next year, with 97% likely to travel for leisure in the next 6 months despite those concerns.

Even with tightened budgets, 95% of those surveyed would still travel – even if it meant scaling back. To help travelers zero in on what they’re looking to experience in 2026, working with a travel advisor when starting to plan that annual getaway can make the process easier.

Additional survey data shows 7 in 10 travelers are turning to professionals to plan their next trips with the younger generations leading the way; 83% of Gen Z and 78% of Millennials are likely to turn to a travel advisor for help with planning and booking.

“What’s really interesting is that travel advisors are resonating with a new wave of travelers,” said ALG Vacations’ Travel Advisor Champion Carson Kressley, the renowned style expert and world traveler best known for his role on “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” and his current Emmy Award-winning judge role on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” “They want help uncovering hidden-gem destinations and great-value packages, and a new generation of advisors is meeting them exactly where they are.”

In addition to booking your next excursion with the assistance of a travel advisor, consider these trends Kressley identified for the year ahead.

Space and Privacy
In 2026, spaciousness is an expression of luxury – private villas, low-density boutique resorts and nature-framed hideaways where quiet feels curated and beauty isn’t shared with the masses. As travelers prioritize serenity over scene, this trend reflects an emotional need for clarity as they look for time to reset and environments that support genuine presence.

Immersion in Culture and Hyper-Local
Travelers desire authentic experiences shaped by local chefs, artisans and storytellers who bring a destination’s heritage to life. It’s no longer about observing culture from a distance; it’s about actively participating in it with the destination’s native citizens, reflecting a desire for meaning and perspective.

Longer, More Intentional Vacations
Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, travelers are embracing itineraries that allow them to breathe through longer stays and experiences that unfold naturally. From a lingering lunch to an unstructured afternoon, this shift toward savoring prioritizes depth and connection.

Transformational Wellness
As wellness continues to evolve into deeply personal territory, travelers seek experiences that restore mind, body and perspective such as sunrise rituals, nature-led healing, cultural wellness traditions and programs designed for renewal.

Screen-Inspired Destinations
Pop culture continues to influence travel, but today’s travelers seek more than filming locations. In 2026, they’re searching for dramatic landscapes, atmospheric architecture, richly layered cultures and experiences that evoke emotion and capture the feeling of their favorite cinematic worlds. This evolution of set-jetting is about stepping into a story rather than tracing its steps.

Shared Multi-Generational Moments
Multi-generational travel is shifting toward more purpose-driven experiences – milestone celebrations, cultural reconnection trips and meaningful moments together. The emphasis is on togetherness, personalization and experiences that feel like legacy.

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To learn more and start booking your next adventure, visit traveladvisorsgetyouthere.com.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

Source: ALG Vacations

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

(Feature Impact) To add charm to your yard, encourage local wildlife and give you a front-row seat to nature, building a birdhouse is a simple weekend project that checks all of those boxes.

Building a Birdhouse

Seasoned DIYers and first-timers alike can follow this step-by-step guide to create a functional, welcoming birdhouse.

Step 1: Choose the Right Design
Start by deciding what type of birds you’d like to attract. Different birds prefer different house sizes and entrance types. A simple, classic birdhouse design makes the project beginner-friendly and works well for common backyard birds like wrens, chickadees and bluebirds. In general, plan for at least a 1-1 2/2-inch entrance hole, a 5-by-5-inch interior space and 2 inches or more of roof overhang.

Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
Most DIY birdhouses can be built with basic materials and tools you may already have at home, including untreated cedar or pine wood, screws or nails, wood glue, sandpaper and exterior-safe paint as well as a measuring tape, pencil, saw and drill.

Step 3: Measure and Cut Wood
Measure and cut wood to make the front panel, back panel, two side panels, floor and roof. Then sand all edges for smooth assembly.

Step 4: Drill Holes
Using a hole-saw bit, drill the entrance hole into the front panel. Position it a few inches below the roofline to keep predators out. Next, drill 2-3 small drainage holes in the floor piece to prevent water buildup and help keep the birdhouse dry.

Step 5: Assemble the Birdhouse
Attach the side panels to the back panel using screws or nails. Add the front panel then secure the floor piece, slightly recessed, so rainwater can drain. Attach the roof last, making sure it slopes slightly to allow water to run off.

Step 6: Paint the Exterior
If you plan to paint your birdhouse, stick to neutral, nature-inspired colors. Light browns, soft greens or white help regulate temperature and blend into the environment.

Step 7: Mount Your Birdhouse
Once dry, place your birdhouse in a quiet, sheltered spot away from heavy foot traffic. Mount or hang it 5-10 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds.

Visit eLivingtoday.com for more DIY project inspiration.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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eLivingtoday.com

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.