Amazing astronomical events to look out for this month [March 2024]

Huntsville is a hotspot for all things space, so you should get familiar with all the astronomical events happening this month. March has everything from a full moon to the start of spring and (hopefully) consistently warm weather.

Keep reading to learn about which astronomical events you should keep an eye out for this March.

First day of spring — March 20

March equinox will officially occur at 10:01PM on Wednesday, March 20, although you might not be able to fully embrace the start of spring until the next day.

What exactly does the equinox mean, though? During this time, the Sun will shine directly on the Earth’s equator and there will be equal amounts of day and night throughout the world.

Mercury at greatest eastern elongation — March 24

If you’ve never had a chance to see Mercury in the night sky, Sunday, March 24 is the best time to do it. To catch it, look up in the western sky just after sunset on Sunday afternoon.

Worm Moon — March 25

At 2:02AM on Monday, March 25, our Moon’s face will be fully illuminated. Early Native American tribes called this Moon the Worm Moon because this was the time of year where the ground would soften and earthworms would surface.

Penumbral lunar eclipse — March 25

A penumbral lunar eclipse isn’t just any other eclipse. During a penumbral lunar eclipse, the Moon passes through the Earth’s partial shadow (also known as its penumbra). The moon will become significantly darker, but it will still be visible.

If you’re able to see any of these astronomical events and get some pictures, we would love to see them! Share your pictures on social media and tag us or DM us at @hvilleblast.

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