The coming March 13-14 total lunar eclipse promises to be spectacular — if the weather permits. This "blood moon" — the first to grace Earth's skies since 2022 — will be visible to people in the lower 48 states and greater Americas unless clouds get in the way.

Skywatchers across the world will witness the first total lunar eclipse in three years. Here’s who will have the best views—and what gives the moon its eerie red tint.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is positioned directly between the moon and sun, blocking the sun's rays from the moon.