March astronomy outlook - Two eclipses take centre stage

There are no meteor showers in March, and though there are two eclipses on show, sadly they won't be visible across India.

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, the best visibility will lay across the United States and South America, for those of us in India, the spectacle can be observed through their pictures and videos.

On March 20th, the March equinox occurs, a day of nearly equal length daylight and night time hours.

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 eclipse will also only be visible to India through pictures elsewhere.