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Early in the morning on March 3, Coloradans will be able to see a total lunar eclipse and blood moon. These planetary events only take place on average every two years, so here are some tips to make the most of the experience.

Photo: NASA/Jordan Cochran

Best time for viewing

The partial eclipse will begin around 3 a.m. MT on March 3, reaching totality around 4 a.m. MT. When the moon is entirely in Earth’s shadow, the moon will be tinted a shade of coppery red—hence the name ‘blood moon.’Ìý

Totality should last about one hour, but the partial eclipse will still be visible for approximately two and a half hours, ending around 7:30 a.m. MT.

How and where to view

Viewing tools like binoculars or a telescope are optional for lunar eclipses, since they are visible to the naked eye.Ìý

It is best to view the eclipse in an area with minimal light pollution, without streetlights or buildings blocking your view. You can even stand in your backyard or on your building’s rooftop and look up. However, be sure to check the forecast, as a cloudy morning may inhibit viewing.

This total lunar eclipse will be visible across the Pacific Ocean, Australia, East Asia and the Americas. We are in luck, as the best viewing locations include the western half of North America and Australia.

There are plenty of ways to stargaze

Whether you're at home or at an observatory, stargazing is fun for everyone. Check out Sommers-Bausch Observatory for more information and viewing opportunities. Fiske Planetarium astronomy resources are also available. Better yet, consider attending a .