Burlington, VT – Vermonters looking ahead to 2026’s eclipse lineup will have chances to look up — but astronomy experts say the most dramatic views this year will belong to the Central and Western United States, not New England.
According to astronomical forecasts, four eclipses occur in 2026, including two solar and two lunar eclipses. While Vermont will see portions of multiple events, timing places the state just outside the prime viewing zone for the year’s most anticipated eclipse.
🌕 March 3, 2026 — Total Lunar Eclipse (Best Viewing West of Vermont)
This is the top eclipse event of 2026 for Americans, but Vermont sits near the eastern edge of visibility.
According to eclipse data, the Moon will move into Earth’s darkest shadow during the early morning hours Tuesday, March 3. Viewers in Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, and the West Coast will see the eclipse in full, including a long-lasting red “Blood Moon” phase.
In Vermont cities such as Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland, and Brattleboro, the Moon will be setting toward the western horizon as the eclipse reaches its peak. Residents may catch partial phases and possibly the start of totality, but the most vivid color and longest duration are expected farther west.
👉 Lunar eclipses are safe to view without special glasses.
🌞 August 12, 2026 — Solar Eclipse (Partial in Vermont)
A highly anticipated total solar eclipse will cross Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain, but Vermont will see only a partial eclipse.
During the late morning hours, the Sun will appear slightly covered when viewed from Burlington and across the Green Mountain State. Certified eclipse glasses are required for safe viewing.
🌕 August 27–28, 2026 — Partial Lunar Eclipse
A second lunar eclipse later in the year will be visible from Vermont, though only modest shadowing of the Moon is expected, making it a quieter sky event.
🧭 Vermont & U.S. Eclipse Takeaway
- ⭐ Best U.S. views: March 3 lunar eclipse (Central & Western states)
- 👀 Vermont viewing: Partial to early total phases only
- ☀️ Solar eclipse: Partial in Vermont, total only overseas
