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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(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.

Start Planning Now for a Thriving Spring Garden

(Family Features) While winter weather puts outdoor gardening on pause in most parts of the country, the colder months offer a perfect opportunity to begin preparing for a lush garden come springtime.

With a little creativity, and some extra time spent creating a plan, you can set yourself on a path toward success before the growing season even begins.

Assess Your Space and Research Ideas
Evaluate your current garden, taking note of what worked well last season and where improvements can be made. Use this downtime to sketch an updated layout, research companion plants and decide which fruits, vegetables or flowers you want to grow next based on what did (or didn’t) work last spring.

Build an Updated Blueprint
Winter is the ideal time to upgrade your garden design and make tweaks for efficiency. Use the offseason to consider crop rotation patterns for optimal soil health as well as ways to maximize your space such as raised beds, trellises or containers. You can also make a list of materials needed for any new features you may be adding, such as an irrigation system, and map out their placement so you’re ready to build as soon as the weather allows.

Nourish the Soil
Even if the ground is frozen, you can prepare your garden beds by adding compost, leaves or organic matter in late winter, ensuring nutrients are available when spring arrives. Also remember to test your soil’s pH level now, which can help guide your fertilization plan.

Start Seeds Indoors
If you’re eager to get your hands dirty, consider starting your seeds indoors. Early seed starting gives plants a head start, allowing you to transplant stronger seedlings outdoors when temperatures warm.

Get Organized
Use the slower pace of winter to clean and sharpen your garden tools, sort through leftover seeds and make a supply checklist so you’re ready to dig in when warmer days arrive.

Find more advice to get your garden ready to burst to life in spring at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

eLivingtoday.com

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