Dawn and the Blood Moon: A rare selenelion sight during March 3 lunar eclipse
Space.com explains a rare phenomenon called selenelion, where the Sun rises as the Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, making both visible at the same time due to atmospheric refraction during the March 3 total lunar eclipse (the last until 2028). The total phase lasts about 59 minutes starting at 3:03 a.m. PST. Visibility varies by location: western regions may witness the Moon near or in totality as it sets, while eastern areas can see dawn with the Moon still visible, and a brief 1–3 minute window may occur when both horizons show the Sun and the eclipsed Moon simultaneously. Observers should have clear eastern and western horizons and be mindful that daylight can wash out the Moon depending on conditions.