The night sky in 2026 is set to deliver a celestial spectacle as the year unfolds with 12 luminous full moons, including three striking **supermoons** and a partial **lunar eclipse** that will captivate skywatchers around the world. The Full Moon Calendar for 2026 provides a month-by-month guide to when each full moon will rise, how it might appear, and what makes some of these events more remarkable than others. Whether you’re stargazing for fun or planning a lunar-themed event, 2026 is filled with opportunities to look upward in awe.
Each month brings the promise of new lunar brilliance, punctuated by rare occurrences that deepen the astronomical intrigue. A **supermoon**, for instance, occurs when the full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth, appearing larger and more luminous than usual. This year, three such events will brighten our nights. Additionally, the partial lunar eclipse expected in August adds a dramatic twist, offering a rare chance for viewers—especially in key visibility regions—to see Earth’s shadow skim the moon’s surface.
From cultural traditions tied to the Full Wolf Moon in January to the crisp clarity of winter moons and the reddish-orange hue of the Harvest Moon in September, each lunation carries meaning and mystique. Here’s an in-depth look at the full moon schedule for 2026, what makes this lunar year unique, and how to spot the most significant events.
2026 Full Moon Calendar Overview
| Full Moon Name | Date | Day | Special Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolf Moon | January 3 | Saturday | — |
| Snow Moon | February 1 | Sunday | — |
| Worm Moon | March 3 | Tuesday | — |
| Pink Moon | April 2 | Thursday | — |
| Flower Moon | May 1 | Friday | — |
| Strawberry Moon | May 31 | Sunday | — |
| Buck Moon | June 29 | Monday | Supermoon |
| Sturgeon Moon | July 29 | Wednesday | Supermoon |
| Blue Moon | August 28 | Friday | Supermoon + Partial Eclipse |
| Harvest Moon | September 27 | Sunday | — |
| Hunter’s Moon | October 27 | Tuesday | — |
| Beaver Moon | November 25 | Wednesday | — |
| Cold Moon | December 25 | Friday | — |
What changed this year for moonwatchers
Unlike recent years, **2026 features an unusual clustering of celestial events**, most notably three supermoons occurring consecutively during the summer months. This alignment brings with it a series of visually remarkable skies, especially around **August 28**, when the **final supermoon coincides with a partial lunar eclipse**. This rare convergence will make the Sturgeon Moon a must-see event for astronomy enthusiasts.
Also unique to this year’s calendar is the **absence of a total lunar eclipse**, which was prominent in 2025. Instead, lunar observers will get a slightly subtler show with a **partial eclipse**, visible primarily in Asia, Australia, and parts of the western Pacific. While it won’t be as dramatic as a full eclipse, a partial eclipse still offers a mesmerizing glance at the cosmic interplay of sun, Earth, and moon.
Spotlight on 2026’s supermoons
The supermoons of 2026 will occur on:
- June 29 (Buck Moon)
- July 29 (Sturgeon Moon)
- August 28 (Blue Moon)
These moons occur when the satellite is closest to Earth in its elliptical orbit, causing it to appear up to **14% larger and 30% brighter** than a regular full moon. The August 28 Blue Moon is particularly special because it also marks the **second full moon in a calendar month**, hence the “blue” in its name; combined with the partial eclipse, this evening promises a celestial event of rare intensity.
“Supermoons are one of the most accessible astronomical events for people without telescopes. Just look up, and nature does the rest.”
— Dr. Elena Ruiz, Astrophysicist
The lunar eclipse: What to expect
On **August 28, 2026**, viewers in Asia, the Pacific islands, and Australia will get a **partial lunar eclipse**, where Earth’s shadow will cover a portion of the moon’s surface. Observers in prime viewing locations should note that visibility will depend on local time zones and weather conditions. For the most dramatic views, the eclipse will reach its maximum at 18:12 UTC.
“Though partial, this lunar eclipse will create a beautiful graying and slight reddening of the moon — a perfect event to photograph or witness with the naked eye.”
— Maya Jensen, Space Photographer
Cultural ties and moon names
Each full moon of the year carries a name rooted in **folk tradition**, Native American customs, and Old English terminology. For instance, the January “Wolf Moon” draws its name from the hungry howls of wolves in midwinter. The “Harvest Moon” in September falls closest to the autumn equinox, historically providing extra light for farmers gathering crops. These names offer more than a poetic touch; they also reflect a **cultural heritage** that has long connected humans to the lunar cycle.
And in December, just in time for winter festivities, the **Cold Moon** rises in crisp clarity the night of December 25 — making it a holiday moon to remember.
Winners and losers in 2026’s lunar calendar
| Group | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Skywatchers in Asia and the Pacific | Best visibility for August’s partial lunar eclipse |
| North America viewers | All three supermoons fully visible |
| Europe and Africa | Limited visibility of lunar eclipse |
| Astrophotographers | Rare triple supermoon alignment for stunning shots |
Tips for viewing full moons
To fully enjoy a **full moon experience**, find a location far from city lights and ideally elevated. Moonrise times vary based on your time zone, but typically occur shortly after sunset — perfect timing for catching that dramatic moment when the moon appears largest on the horizon. Binoculars can enhance surface details, though the naked eye is often enough to appreciate the sheer glow and aura of these lunar spectacles.
“You don’t need expensive gear to enjoy the full moon — just curiosity and a clear sky.”
— Jordan Malik, Amateur Astronomer
Short FAQs about the 2026 full moon calendar
How many supermoons will there be in 2026?
There will be three supermoons in 2026: June 29, July 29, and August 28.
What is a Blue Moon and when will it occur?
A Blue Moon is the second full moon in a single calendar month. In 2026, it happens on August 28.
When is the lunar eclipse in 2026?
The partial lunar eclipse will occur on August 28 and is best visible in Asia and the Pacific regions.
Which full moon is closest to the autumn equinox?
The September 27 Harvest Moon rises closest to the autumn equinox in 2026.
What is a Cold Moon?
The Cold Moon is the full moon in December, named for the arrival of chilly winter nights. In 2026, it peaks on December 25.
Can I see the full moon without equipment?
Yes, full moons are visible to the naked eye and do not require telescopes or binoculars, though those can enhance details.
Why do some moons have names like Wolf Moon or Pink Moon?
These names come from Native American, colonial, and cultural traditions that used lunar phases to track time and seasonal events.
What makes a supermoon different?
A supermoon occurs when the moon is both full and at its closest point to Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual.
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