Stargazers across the United Kingdom are in for a celestial treat tonight as the first full moon of 2026, known as the Wolf Moon, ascends into the winter sky. This lunar event is particularly special as it marks the fourth consecutive supermoon, following those in October, November, and December of last year.
What Is The Wolf Moon And When To See It
The spectacle will be at its most brilliant when the moon sits near the horizon during evening moonrise. The exact time varies across the country: look east at 3.48pm in London and Belfast, 4.03pm in Swansea, and 3.06pm in Aberdeen. While the moon is technically at its fullest at 10.03am GMT on Saturday 3 January, the best viewing opportunity for the public will be after sunset.
This supermoon will appear larger and brighter than a typical full moon because it is closer to Earth in its elliptical orbit. If clouds stay away, it promises to be a spectacular sight, with the next moon of similar scale not due until November 2026.
The name 'Wolf Moon' is believed to originate from Native American traditions, linked to the sound of wolves howling in hunger during the deep winter. While wolves are not a feature of the modern British landscape, the evocative name endures. This full moon also carries other traditional names like the Stay Home Moon and the Quiet Moon, reflecting the cold, still nature of January.
Your Guide to Successful Moon-Gazing Tonight
To maximise your chances of a clear view of the 2026 Wolf Moon, a little preparation is key. Follow these simple tips for the best experience:
Seek Out Darkness: Light pollution from towns and cities can significantly dim the moon's glory. For the most impressive view, find a dark spot away from streetlights and illuminated buildings.
Wrap Up Warm: January nights are bitterly cold. Moon watching involves patience and stillness, so dressing in multiple layers, with a hat and gloves, is essential to stay comfortable.
Be Patient and Use Tech: Patchy cloud could obscure the view intermittently. Allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness and consider using stargazing apps like Night Sky or Stellarium to help identify celestial objects.
A Unique Lunar Year Ahead
The Wolf Moon kicks off a notable year for lunar phases. Interestingly, 2026 will host 13 full moons instead of the usual 12. This is because the month of May will have two full moons. The second full moon in a calendar month is popularly called a 'Blue Moon', an event that occurs roughly once every two and a half years.
This quirk of the calendar happens because a full moon cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days, which is slightly shorter than most of our calendar months. The extra accumulation of time eventually leads to a month with two full moons.
The lunar calendar continues with the Snow Moon on 1 February, followed by the Worm Moon in March and the Pink Moon in April. Each presents a new opportunity to connect with the night sky, weather permitting.
