An 'almost blood moon' is coming on Aug. 27 and it'll be the best lunar eclipse until NYE 2028

An almost full eclipsed moon with a majority of the surface appearing a rusty red hue and the lower left portion still bright white. there is a yellow notification bell graphic in the center.

One month from today, skywatchers across the Americas, Europe and Africa will have the chance to witness the best lunar eclipse until New Year's Eve 2028.

On Aug. 28, Earth's shadow will cover up to 96% of the moon's disk in an exceptionally deep partial lunar eclipse. At maximum eclipse, only a thin sliver of the moon will remain outside Earth's darkest shadow, creating an "almost blood moon" with nearly the entire lunar surface glowing a deep reddish-orange.

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to observe with the naked eye and requires no special equipment. All you need is clear skies and a view of the moon.

Where can I see the lunar eclipse?

A map of the lunar eclipse on Aug. 27-28, 2026. Click the arrows in the bottom left corner to expand to full screen. (Image credit: F. Espenak, NASA's GSFC)

The eclipse will be visible across Europe, Africa, the Americas and parts of western Asia, though exactly what you'll see depends on your location.

The Americas are particularly well-placed to catch the eclipse's most dramatic stages, as many locations will see the moon rise already deep within Earth's shadow. Across eastern North America, observers will see the "almost blood moon" climb above the horizon shortly before or during maximum eclipse.

Across Europe and Africa, the eclipse occurs before dawn on Aug. 28. Observers in the U.K. and western Europe will see the moon low in the western sky during the final stages of the eclipse, before it sets shortly after maximum. Farther east, progressively less of the eclipse will be visible before moonset.

• North & South America: Best overall views
• Europe & Africa: Excellent predawn moonset eclipse
• Western Asia: Limited views before moonset
• Eastern Asia: Little or no visibility.

What will it look like?

A deep partial lunar eclipse makes for an impressive skywatching event. (Image credit: Laurie LaPorte via Getty Images)

Because 96% of the moon will pass through Earth's central dark shadow, known as the umbra, this eclipse is expected to look remarkably similar to a total lunar eclipse or a "blood moon" lunar eclipse. The moon will likely take on a deep coppery-red hue with only a narrow bright silver lining remaining.

Follow along with Space.com

Over the coming month, Space.com will bring you everything you need to prepare for eclipse night. From viewing guides and photographing the event to a live blog bringing you the latest news and action from the best lunar eclipse until NYE 2028. We'll also be releasing details on how you can watch the eclipse online if you're unable to catch it in person.