Best spots in Mexico City to watch August's lunar eclipse

Mexico City is preparing to host a significant astronomical event as a partial lunar eclipse, covering 96% of the moon, is set to occur on the evening of Thursday, August 27, 2026. The phenomenon will extend into the early hours of Friday, August 28, offering skygazers ample opportunity to witness the celestial display.

Thousands of enthusiasts in the capital are seeking ideal locations to observe the eclipse. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) explains that lunar eclipses happen when the Moon partially passes through Earth's umbra due to an imperfect alignment of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. The eclipse is expected to begin at 7:23 PM, reach its peak at 10:12 PM, and conclude at 1:01 AM.

To accommodate the public's interest, various institutions are organizing viewing events. The Luis Enrique Erro Planetarium will provide free telescope access and educational activities. Universum, the science museum of UNAM, will host observation sessions and talks in Ciudad Universitaria. Additionally, open areas within Bosque de Chapultepec, such as the castle esplanade and the Audiorama terrace, offer clear vantage points.

For those seeking to escape the city's light pollution, the Planetario de Chimalhuacán and natural parks like Desierto de los Leones and Cumbres del Ajusco are recommended. Experts advise that, unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses do not require special filters or protective eyewear. The event promises to be a captivating spectacle for residents across the Americas and parts of Europe.