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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Preparing Students for What’s Next in Work

• Completing secondary education
• Graduating with a degree in a high-paying field of study
• Receiving mentorship during adolescence
• Obtaining a first full-time job with opportunity for advancement

• Learning opportunities that are designed with the future in mind. For example, learning experiences offered through Junior Achievement reflect the skills and competencies needed to promote economic mobility.

• Internships or apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience and exposure to a career field that can’t be found in a textbook.

• Volunteer or extracurricular roles that develop communication and leadership skills. Virtually every career field requires these soft skills for growth and greater earning potential.

• Relationships that provide insight and connection. Networking with individuals who are already excelling in a chosen field, as well as peers who share similar aspirations, offers perspective from those who are where you wish to be and potentially opens future doors for employment.

• Courses that offer introductory insight into a chosen career path. Local trade or technical schools and other training organizations may even offer certifications that align with a student’s area of interest.

(Feature Impact) Heart disease is something many adults push to the back of their minds if they are not experiencing symptoms; a concern for “later” in life. However, that mindset may be changing. New research suggests younger generations are thinking about their cardiovascular health earlier and with greater urgency.

They’re right to be thinking about it, too. Data from the American Heart Association shows heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of Americans. In fact, someone dies from cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds in the United States.

Risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease are on the rise, too. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure (47%), and obesity (42%), and more than half (57%) have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.

Despite growing concern about heart health, many adults remain unclear about their personal risk. In fact, a majority of respondents (62%) in a survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Doctor’s Best said they don’t know their current risk for heart disease. To provide context on these findings and highlight emerging heart health trends, Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine, offers some insights.

Feeling Fatigue

In the study, only 50% of respondents reported feeling energetic on a daily basis. Among those who reported feeling fatigued, 46% listed stress as their top perceived contributor, followed by insufficient sleep (38%), both of which are closely tied to cardiovascular health.

Troubling Symptoms

Among Gen Z respondents, 25% reported having shortness of breath during activity or while lying down, compared to just 16% of Baby Boomers, which is commonly associated with compromised heart health.

Statins and Youth

Statins, which help address cardiovascular risk factors such as high cholesterol, are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in America, with more than 92 million Americans currently taking them, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Although most survey respondents (76%) aren’t currently taking a statin, 17% of adults ages 25-34 reported using statin therapy, which is an unexpectedly high proportion given their age and the group’s low anticipated risk of cardiovascular disease.

Side Effects of Statins

Among those taking statins, which are considered a first-line treatment for treating high cholesterol and reducing heart disease risk, 54% reported experiencing side effects, particularly muscle pain (23%) and fatigue (31%). However, taking statins can also affect levels of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which supports cellular energy and cardiovascular function.

All About CoQ10

Cells use CoQ10 to produce energy and detoxify. Studies have shown people with heart failure who took CoQ10 had around a 50% reduction in mortality. Despite this, awareness is low. Nearly two-thirds (66%) of respondents had never heard of CoQ10 and that number jumps to 76% of adults ages 25-34. Additionally, only a small percentage of respondents (8%) who were on a statin reported having their CoQ10 level tested.

“We have a real opportunity to help younger adults take a more proactive approach to heart health,” Elliott said. “CoQ10 plays a critical role in cellular energy production and heart muscle function, and it can decline with age and statin use.”

If you’re among the 71% of survey respondents who expressed a willingness to learn more about improving your heart health, talk with your health care provider and visit DoctorsBest.com to learn more.

Strategies to Support Heart Health

While some risk factors for heart disease, like age and family history, are out of your control, you can make lifestyle changes to help lower your risk:

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• Eat Whole Foods: A heart-healthy eating plan includes plenty of lean proteins as well as fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and foods high in omega-3s, such as salmon, nuts and plant oils.
  
• Know Your CoQ10 Levels: If you’re low, look for a high-quality, bioavailable formula, like Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 with BioPerine, which supports energy production and muscle function.
• Get Moving: The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week to help control weight and lower the risk for conditions that negatively impact the heart.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (woman with hand over chest)

SOURCE:

Doctor’s Best

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.