A deep red hue envelops the Moon during the total lunar eclipse over Vung Tau beach city in southern Vietnam. Photo by Nguyen Dang Khoa
The eclipse began its penumbral phase at 3:44 p.m., followed by the partial phase at 4:50 p.m. According to the Vietnam Astronomy and Cosmology Association (VACA), the Moon did not rise in Hanoi until 5:57 p.m., with times varying slightly across the country. Consequently, Vietnamese observers missed the initial stages but were positioned to view the majority of the total phase.
Unfortunately, overcast skies in Hanoi obstructed the view for many in the capital.
A moon hangs over the whale statue at Bai Sau (Back Beach), Vung Tau. Photo by Nguyen Dang Khoa
The total eclipse phase commenced at 6:04 p".m., peaking approximately 30 minutes later as the Moon aligned with the center of Earth's shadow. Rather than vanishing into darkness, the lunar surface took on a deep copper hue, a phenomenon known as the "blood moon' effect. Totality concluded at 7:02 p.m., with the event fully ending by 9:23 p.m.
The blood moon glows over Nui San Hill, 200 meters above central beach city Nha Trang. Photo by Bui Toan
While unfavorable weather obscured the eclipse across much of Vietnam, residents in Nha Trang enjoyed clear skies. Many who hiked up local peaks reported ideal viewing conditions.
"To clearly see the Moon's red color, you need an open vantage point, ideally from hills in the city center such as Co Tien or Nui San," explained local resident Nguyen Kaio.
The Moon seen from Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday night, shortly after reaching the peak of the total eclipse. Photo by Le Dang
A full moon is seen above the buildings of Havana, Cuba, on March 3, 2026, during a total lunar eclipse. Photo by AFP
The "blood moon" rises over the skyline of Bangkok, Thailand during a total lunar eclipse, March 3, 2026. Photo by Reuters
A photographer joins two locals to observe the lunar eclipse in South Portland, Maine, the U.S. Photo by AP
A full moon rises over buildings in Manila, the Philippines, during the lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026. Photo by AFP
Tuesday night's spectacle marked the only total lunar eclipse of 2026. While a partial eclipse is set to occur on Aug. 28, it will favor skywatchers in North America, South America, Europe, and Africa. Vietnam will miss out on this second event entirely.
