The total lunar eclipse this March is the last of its kind until 2028

Here’s your complete guide to catching a glimpse.

This March, Australians will have front-row seats to one of the sky’s most spectacular shows: a total lunar eclipse. Also known as a blood moon, the celestial event will paint the night in a smouldering palette of oranges and reds. Miss it and you’ll have to wait until 2028 for the next one – when the cosmos will deliver a double feature.

What is a total lunar eclipse?

Lunar eclipses occur when Earth passes directly between the sun and a full moon, casting a shadow over our closest cosmic friend. While partial eclipses are quite common, a total lunar eclipse requires absolute precision – only unfolding when the Earth, moon and sun fall into near-perfect alignment.

Here’s how it works: Earth’s shadow is made up of two layers. The penumbral layer is the outer part of the shadow, where Earth can only block some of the sun’s light. The inner layer, known as the umbra, is much smaller, so Earth is able to block all direct sunlight.

A partial solar eclipse occurs when only part of the moon slips into the umbra, creating a bite-like shadow on its surface. But when the moon falls completely within this dark and dense region, Earth’s shadow envelops the entire cratered surface, resulting in a total lunar eclipse or ‘blood moon’.

Despite its eerie nickname, a blood moon isn’t as sinister as it sounds. Much like the strawberry moon in June, it stems from the colours the celestial event creates. As Earth lines up with the sun and casts its shadow over the moon, our atmosphere bends and filters the light. Blue wavelengths are scattered while red light continues to pass through, bathing the moon in an amber glow that inspired its nickname.

When and where to see it in Australia

When it comes to night-sky phenomena, the southern hemisphere is often left in the dark – literally. While last year delivered particularly bright meteor showers like the Perseids, many astronomical events favour the northern hemisphere.

But this year, on Tuesday 3rd of March, the tables have turned. According to NASA , some continents (including Africa and Europe) won’t see the blood moon at all, and sightings in the United States will be limited to the west. Much of South America and Central Asia will only get a partial eclipse, too. For once, it seems like Aussies have the best seat in the house.

The total lunar eclipse will be visible in every state, though totality will occur at varying times. At its peak, the moon will remain fully shadowed for up to an hour – giving you plenty of time to soak it all in.

A quick state-by-state guide to totality*:

Tuesday 3rd of March

NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas: 10:04pm – 11:02pm
Qld: 9:04pm – 10:02pm
WA: 7:04pm – 8:02pm
SA: 9:34pm – 10:32pm
NT: 8:34pm – 9:32pm

Unlike solar eclipses, no special equipment or protection is required to witness the blood moon – just clear skies and a bit of patience. It will also be visible to the naked eye, but keen astronomers can use binoculars or a telescope to get a closer look.

For the ultimate experience, it’s best to go remote – places like Wilpena Pound in SA, Warrumbungle National Park in NSW and WA’s Lake Ballard are some of Australia’s best spots for stargazing.

Save the date in 2028

Miss this year’s total lunar eclipse and you’ll be waiting nearly three years for another shot, with the next occurring on 31 December 2028. But even those who do catch it will want to mark their calendars.

Not only will 2028 bring the next blood moon, but it will also deliver something even rarer: a total solar eclipse over Australia. While WA, Queensland and the Northern Territory were treated to a glimpse in 2023, other states haven’t experienced totality since 2002.

In a twist of cosmic luck, WA, Queensland and the NT are in line for another front-row seat come 2028. But this time, one more state will join them – and it may just have the best view of all.

On 22 July at 2pm, the eclipse will reach totality above Sydney, NSW. Lasting up to four minutes, it will mark the city’s first total solar eclipse in more than 20 years – and the last chance to catch one until 2037.

While those in South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania won’t experience totality, you’ll still catch a partial glimpse. But if that’s not enough, there’s ample time to plot a celestial road trip – because it’s moments like this that are worth travelling for.

*Times listed indicate totality window only. Head outside earlier if you’d like to watch the eclipse begin.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.