Lunar eclipse August 2026: Where will it be visible, what time will it peak and how to watch

The August 27-28, 2026 lunar eclipse will be an exceptionally deep partial eclipse, with nearly 96.2% of the Moon's surface passing through Earth's darkest shadow. The event is expected to give the eclipsed portion of the Moon a reddish-orange appearance. However, the August 2026 lunar eclipse will not be visible from India.

NASA describes the event as a partial lunar eclipse that will be observable from parts of the Americas, Europe and Africa. The eclipse occurs when Earth moves between the Sun and Moon, causing Earth's shadow to fall across the Moon. During a partial lunar eclipse, only part of the Moon enters Earth's umbra, while the remaining portion stays outside the darkest shadow.

Will the August 2026 lunar eclipse be visible in India?

No, the August 2026 lunar eclipse will not be visible from India. The eclipse will reach its peak at 9:43 AM IST on August 28, when it will be daytime in India and the Moon will be below the horizon.

Where will the August 27-28 lunar eclipse be visible?

The deep partial lunar eclipse will be visible across several parts of the world. Around 96.2% of the Moon will pass through Earth's dark umbral shadow.

North America will have visibility across much of the continent, while many locations in Central America will also be able to observe the eclipse. Large parts of South America, Europe and Africa will fall within the visibility zone.

Some areas of western Asia will also be able to see the event. Parts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans will also experience the eclipse.

Australia will remain outside the main visibility zone.

Why will the Moon appear reddish-orange?

The eclipsed portion of the Moon can take on a reddish-orange colour, which is why such an event is sometimes informally called a "blood moon."

Earth's atmosphere scatters blue light more strongly, allowing more red and orange light to reach the Moon during the eclipse. The term "blood moon" is an informal description rather than the scientific name for the event.

How to watch the August 2026 lunar eclipse

Skywatchers in locations where the eclipse is visible can choose a spot with an unobstructed view of the Moon and check the weather forecast beforehand.

The changing position of Earth's shadow can be observed as it gradually covers the Moon. Binoculars or a telescope can also be used, while a tripod can help capture photographs of the event.

Those unable to see the eclipse from their location can follow a livestream.

Is it safe to watch a lunar eclipse?

A lunar eclipse can be viewed safely with the naked eye, and special eclipse goggles are not required. Binoculars and telescopes can also be used without filters.

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse does not require special eye protection. Watching the event from a dark location can also improve visibility.

Lunar eclipse vs solar eclipse

A lunar eclipse takes place when Earth comes between the Sun and Moon, while a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Sun and Earth.

Lunar eclipses occur during a full Moon, whereas solar eclipses occur during a new Moon. A lunar eclipse can generally be observed from a much wider area, while a solar eclipse is visible along a narrower path.

When is the next lunar eclipse?

The next lunar eclipse after August 2026 is scheduled for February 20, 2027, and will be a penumbral eclipse. NASA also lists further penumbral lunar eclipses for July 18 and August 17, 2027.

The February 20, 2027 event will be visible from the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia and western Australia. The July 18 eclipse will be visible across Africa, Asia, Australia and the Pacific, while the August 17 event will be visible mainly across the Pacific and Americas.