March astro outlook - Two eclipses take centre stage

There are no meteor showers in March, but the month does bring us two eclipses, plus the start of astronomical spring!

Getting things started is the appearance of Mercury, or at least the best time of the year to spot the smallest planet in the solar system. With good conditions, you can spot the planet on the western horizon.

A few days later, on March 14th, the Worm Moon rises. Like all full moons, the name originates with Native Americans who noted to reappearance of earthworms in spring.

This year, it also brings a total lunar eclipse. Sadly, this will only be partially visible as the Moon sets in the UK and Ireland with the best visibility across the US and South America.

On March 20th, the spring equinox occurs at 08:58 am, the second starting point of spring as it marks the astronomical beginning of the month. The meteorological start of spring arrived March 1st.

Closing out the month is the new moon, offering the darkest skies and best view of the stars. This time, March 29th also brings a partial solar eclipse. Best seen from Greenland, this event will be visible across the UK and Ireland too.