Image Source: CNN
This month, sky-gazers are in for a spectacular treat with not one, but two full moons lighting up the night sky. The first moon, known as the flower moon, is set to peak at 1:23 p.m. ET on Friday, but will look full on Thursday night, Friday, and Saturday. It’s a visual delight that you won’t want to miss!
April Ends with a Stunning Flower Moon
The flower moon rises low in the east at sunset on Friday night, reaching its zenith around midnight before setting in the west just before sunrise Saturday morning. Noah Petro, project scientist for NASA’s Artemis III mission, mentions that “on May 1, the moon will be at its fullest moment, but will appear full for 24 hours before and after.” That means whether you gaze at the moon on Friday night or Saturday, it will present a beautiful sight.
In addition to its stunning visual, this full moon launches a series of three micromoons, where the moon is at its greatest distance from Earth. According to NASA, this flower moon will be approximately 249,180 miles away, compared to its average of 238,855 miles. The term “micromoon” indicates this special distance.
Prepare for a Blue Moon Later This Month
Mark your calendar for May 31, as the second full moon of the month will occur, often referred to as a blue moon. This event is particularly noteworthy since it’s a calendrical blue moon, happening when both the beginning and end of the month feature a full moon. This rarity occurs only seven times every 19 years, making it an extraordinary event!
The blue moon will peak at 4:45 a.m. ET, just before sunrise. Petro advises choosing a good vantage point away from bright lights, buildings, and trees to get the most rewarding view. He adds that the moon will rise around sunset, providing the perfect backdrop for an evening under the stars.
Why Are Full Moons Significant?
The first full moon of May not only falls on May Day, a celebration marking the halfway point between the March equinox and the June solstice but also holds cultural significance. The nickname “flower moon,” attributed to the Comanche tribe, reflects the blossoming of wildflowers across North America, particularly in the Great Plains.
Different tribes have unique names for this moon. For instance, the Potawatomi and Shawnee call it the strawberry moon, while the Choctaw and Creek refer to it as the mulberry moon, aligning with the harvesting period for strawberries and mulberries, respectively. The rich traditions surrounding the full moon reflect its vital place in cultural heritage and nature’s rhythm.
Triggers for Sky-Watching
As May unfolds, the excitement around full moons is buoyed by recent space missions. The flower moon will be the first since the historic Artemis II mission, where four astronauts completed a 10-day journey around the far side of the moon in April, captivating the world with stunning lunar images.
Petro encourages everyone to take a moment to appreciate the moon: “You can see features on the western limb of the moon, like Aristarchus, even from over 200,000 miles away.” He adds that although you may be farther away than the crew who experienced the mission up close, enjoying the moon brings shared joy to all of mankind.
Upcoming Lunar Events to Watch
- June 29: Strawberry moon
- July 29: Buck moon
- August 28: Sturgeon moon
- September 26: Corn moon
- October 26: Hunter’s moon
- November 24: Beaver moon
- December 23: Cold moon
As we embrace May’s celestial wonders, the question remains: is there a full moon tonight? Those who step outside this week will not be disappointed by the views of the moon, as it brings light and wonder to our skies.
FAQ
What dates will the full moons occur in May 2026?
The first full moon, the flower moon, will peak on May 1, and the blue moon will peak on May 31, 2026.
Why is it called a blue moon?
A blue moon refers to the rare occurrence of having two full moons in a single calendar month. It happens only seven times every 19 years.
Can the moon appear in different colors?
Yes, the moon can appear blue under unique atmospheric conditions, typically following volcanic eruptions or large fires.
How can I best view the full moon?
To get the best view, find a location away from bright lights and obstructions like tall buildings and trees, and be patient as the moon rises.
