Bryan Stalder 
Contributor

Set your alarms and stock up on coffee. A spectacular celestial show is headed for our neighborhood skies in the early hours of Tuesday, March 3. A total lunar eclipse—often called a “Blood Moon” for the deep reddish hue the moon takes on—will be fully visible right here in the neighborhood.

Unlike a solar eclipse, you don’t need special glasses to enjoy this event. All you need is a clear view of the western sky and a bit of stamina for the pre-dawn hours.

An eclipse is a slow-motion masterpiece, lasting several hours. According to local astronomical data, the transition begins while most of us are still asleep, but the “main event” happens just as the early birds are starting their day.

 * 2:44 AM: The eclipse begins as the Earth’s shadow first touches the Moon.

 * 3:50 AM: The partial eclipse begins. You’ll see a “bite” taken out of the Moon.

 * 5:04 AM: Totality begins. This is when the Moon is fully engulfed in Earth’s shadow and turns that iconic rusty red.

 * 5:33 AM: Maximum Eclipse. The Moon will be at its deepest color, sitting about 14 degrees above the western horizon.

 * 6:02 AM: Totality ends as the first sliver of white light returns.

 * 6:51 AM: The Moon sets in the West, just as the sun begins to rise.

While you can see the eclipse from any backyard with a clear western view, the Historic Northeast offers some of the most scenic vantage points in Kansas City. Because the Moon will be low in the western sky during totality, elevation will enhance the viewing experience.

 * Indian Mound: With its high elevation overlooking the Missouri River valley, the Indian Mound at Gladstone Boulevard and Belmont Blvd. is arguably the best seat in the house. It offers an unobstructed view of the western horizon, perfect for catching the Moon before it sets.

 * The Kessler Park Reservoir (64124): The abandoned reservoir atop Prospect Point provides a unique, gritty, and beautiful backdrop. The open space around the basin offers plenty of room to set up a tripod or a lawn chair.

 * Museum of Kansas City: If you prefer to stay closer to the heart of the neighborhood, the hill to the west of the Museum lawn offers decent visibility, though you’ll want to find a spot away from the direct glare of the streetlights. There should be plenty of available parking along Walrond Ave.

 * Check the Clouds: Late winter weather in Kansas City can be fickle. Check the forecast on Monday night; if it’s overcast, the show may be hidden.

 * Bundle Up: Temperatures in early March often hover near freezing. If you’re heading to the parks, dress in layers.

 * Look for Regulus: During totality, look near the eclipsed Moon for a bright “star.” That is actually Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation Leo, which will be keeping the Blood Moon company.

*The March full moon is traditionally known as the Worm Moon to signify the thawing of the soil and the re-emergence of life from the earth, such as earthworms. Also called the Sap Moon or Sugar Moon, it marks a period of profound transition and renewal.

Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just a curious neighbor, don’t miss this chance to see the universe put on a show over our historic streets. The next total lunar eclipse of this scale won’t happen again until 2029!