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A lunar eclipse will turn the moon 'blood red.' Here's how and when to watch.

A celestial event will change the appearance of the moon this week, but if you’re in the United States, you’ll have to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to see it.

On Tuesday, March 3, a total lunar eclipse will create a “blood moon” — a moon that appears red as it slips into Earth’s shadow. This happens when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that filters sunlight. It will be the last blood moon until New Year’s Eve in 2028.

Atmospheric conditions will affect how red the moon appears, according to National Geographic. Clear skies, as currently forecast, will make the moon brighter and more copper-colored. More atmospheric particles can make the moon appear darker and deeper in color.

Unlike a solar eclipse, which requires special glasses or equipment to safely view it, you can look directly at a lunar eclipse with the naked eye. Here’s how to make sure you catch it.

Where can I see the lunar eclipse’s blood moon?

According to NASA, the total lunar eclipse will be fully visible in eastern Asia, Australia and the Pacific, as well as in the early morning for North and Central America and western South America. Central Asia and much of South America will see only a partial eclipse, while Africa and Europe won’t be able to see it at all.

Stargazers in western North America, Australia and the Pacific region will have the best opportunity to view it, per Space.com. In the eastern United States, viewers will be able to see the total eclipse — however, the moon will be very low in the sky, meaning the full red phase may end just as the moon disappears below the horizon.

When will I be able to see the blood moon?

You will be able to view the entire eclipse beginning at 4:50 a.m. ET on March 3. This is when the Earth’s shadow begins moving across the moon. The moon should appear red a little over an hour later, at around 6:04 a.m. ET, with the peak of the blood moon at its deepest red at about 6:33 a.m. ET. The moon should appear red until a little before 7 a.m. ET.

What should I know about viewing the event?

Even if you can technically view the eclipse from your vantage point, you also need to consider the weather: A sky that’s cloudy may make it difficult to catch the moon. Check the forecast before you go outside, and consider a backup spot if your first location choice is cloudy.

You can also bring a pair of binoculars or even a telescope to get a clearer view of the moon. Want to capture it on camera? If you’re using your phone, lower your camera’s exposure for the best snapshot.