March Has 9 Night Sky Wonders-Including the Last Total Lunar Eclipse Until 2028, Zodiacal Light, and a 'Planet Parade'

"A rare planetary lineup from late February will continue into early March, with six planets-Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune-appearing to trace the same path across the sky, known as the ecliptic. Because Mercury, Saturn, and Neptune set soon after sunset, you'll need to look shortly after twilight to see all six at once."

"While February's annular eclipse was likely viewed by more penguins than people, portions of March's total lunar eclipse will be visible from Asia, Australia, and North America. As Earth's shadow moves across the moon, the lunar surface will gradually dim and then take on the deep reddish hue that gives 'blood moons' their nickname."

"According to Time and Date, the eclipse begins at 4:50 a.m. ET, with totality-when the moon is fully immersed in Earth's shadow-starting at 6:04 a.m. ET and lasting about an hour. If clouds get in the way, parts of the U.S. will have another chance to catch a total lunar eclipse on New Year's Eve 2028."

March offers several significant skywatching events. Early in the month, six planets—Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune—align along the ecliptic, visible shortly after sunset through March 4. Mercury, Saturn, and Neptune require quick viewing as they set soon after twilight, while Venus and Jupiter are bright naked-eye objects. Uranus and Neptune need binoculars or telescopes. On March 3, a total lunar eclipse creates a blood moon visible from Asia, Australia, and North America, beginning at 4:50 a.m. ET with totality lasting about an hour starting at 6:04 a.m. ET. Daylight Saving Time begins March 8, pushing sunset later and affecting evening stargazing schedules.

Read at Travel + Leisure