North America to Witness Near-Total Lunar Eclipse in August 2026
North America is set to experience a significant lunar eclipse on the night of August 27/28, 2026. This event, dubbed a 'Blood Moon' lunar eclipse, will see approximately 96% of the full Moon's surface enter Earth's shadow, causing it to appear in dramatic copper red or deep orange hues. Unlike a solar eclipse, this lunar phenomenon is entirely safe to observe with the naked eye. The 'greatest eclipse,' when the Moon is most covered, is projected to occur at 04:13 UTC (00:13 EDT). The eclipse will begin in earnest around 02:34 UTC (22:34 EDT). This particular full Moon is known as the Sturgeon Moon, a traditional name for August's full Moon, historically associated with the abundance of sturgeon fish. Observers across the USA and Canada will have the opportunity to witness this celestial event, with specific timings varying by time zone.