Travel
Gimhae Astronomical Observatory in South Korea to host rare total lunar eclipse viewing on March 3
Haps Magazine Korea
February 27, 2026
(Photo by Gimhae City/ courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
A rare celestial event will unfold over Gimhae on March 3, as a total lunar eclipse coincides with the first full moon of the lunar year.
It will be the first time in 36 years that a total lunar eclipse aligns with this traditional full moon night, creating the dramatic sight of a red moon in the sky.
The Gimhae Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Gimhae Cultural Tourism Foundation, will hold a special viewing event titled “Night of the Red Full Moon.”
According to the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, the total eclipse will begin at 8:04 p.m., with the partial phase ending at 10:17 p.m. The entire sequence of the eclipse will be visible across Korea.
Participants will be able to observe the moon’s gradual change from partial eclipse to totality through telescopes.
The observatory will also offer smartphone astrophotography sessions, live outdoor screenings on a large display and commemorative badges for attendees.
The event will run from 7 p.m. to 9:40 p.m. Advance reservations are required through the observatory’s website. Each of the four sessions is limited to 70 participants.
Admission is 4,000 won for adults, 3,000 won for teenagers and 2,500 won for children.
The event may be canceled in the event of unfavorable weather conditions.