Goldendale Observatory hosts viewings of PNW’s last lunar eclipses until 2033

GOLDENDALE — Lunar eclipses are among the most anticipated celestial events at Goldendale Observatory State Park, and 2026 will bring two remarkable opportunities for skywatchers across the Pacific Northwest.  

A total lunar eclipse will occur early Tuesday morning on March 3. The eclipse will begin at 12:44 a.m. and conclude at 6:23 a.m., with maximum eclipse at 3:33 a.m.  

The observatory will open for drop-in visitors from 1 to 6 a.m. Visitors will have a chance to view the eclipsed moon and other celestial objects through multiple telescopes. Reservations for this event are not required. 

For those unable to attend the March event, a second occurrence will take place the evening of Thursday, Aug. 27. A partial lunar eclipse will occur during the observatory’s regularly scheduled evening programming, between 9 p.m. and 12 a.m. The eclipse will reach 96% totality – nearly a total lunar eclipse. Reservations will be required for this event and can be made on the Goldendale Observatory website closer to the event. 

“Lunar eclipses are some of our favorite events,” said Parks Interpretive Specialist, Troy Carpenter. “We want to make sure the public gets a chance to see these two beautiful eclipses because we are not well-placed for another until 2033.” 

For more information about these events or the Goldendale Observatory, please visit goldendaleobservatory.com.