Boston, MA – Eclipse watchers across New England will have a few chances to look up in 2026, but astronomers say the region will sit outside the prime viewing zone for the year’s most dramatic celestial events.
According to astronomical forecasts, four eclipses will occur in 2026, including two solar and two lunar eclipses. While parts of New England will be able to see portions of multiple events, the most vivid and longest-lasting eclipse views will favor the Central and Western United States.
🌕 March 3, 2026 — Total Lunar Eclipse (Limited in New England)
The most anticipated eclipse of 2026 will be a total lunar eclipse — but New England lies near the far eastern edge of ideal visibility.
According to eclipse timing data, the Moon will enter Earth’s darkest shadow during the early morning hours Tuesday, March 3. Viewers in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, and Rhode Island may see partial phases and possibly the beginning of totality, but the Moon will be setting toward the western horizon as the eclipse reaches its peak.
States farther west — including the Midwest and Plains — will experience a longer, darker “Blood Moon” phase with the Moon higher in the sky.
👉 Lunar eclipses are safe to view without special glasses.
🌞 August 12, 2026 — Solar Eclipse (Partial Across New England)
A major total solar eclipse will cross Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain, drawing global attention. In New England, the event will appear only as a partial solar eclipse.
During the late morning hours, the Sun will appear slightly obscured across the region. Certified solar eclipse glasses are required for safe viewing.
🌕 August 27–28, 2026 — Partial Lunar Eclipse
A second lunar eclipse later in the summer will also be visible from New England, though only subtle shadowing of the Moon is expected.
🧭 New England Eclipse Takeaway
- ⭐ Best local event: March 3 lunar eclipse (limited view)
- 👀 Viewing reality: Peak moments occur farther west
- ☀️ Solar eclipse: Partial only across New England
