The first full moon of 2026 will illuminate the night sky this Saturday, January 3, as the Wolf Supermoon rises shortly after sunset across much of the United States. This celestial event will be the last supermoon in a rare sequence of four, following a harvest, beaver, and cold moons that appeared in late 2025.
Named after the mid-winter traditions of North America, when wolves were often heard howling, the wolf moon will be slightly larger and brighter than an average full moon due to its proximity to Earth.
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When will the Wolf Supermoon reach full phase?
The full moon will occur at 5:03 a.m. EST, but for viewing purposes, the exact time is less critical, say skywatchers. The best sight usually happens at moonrise - when the moon rises low on the eastern horizon during twilight - which produces a striking visual effect.
Supermoons are full moons that happen near the perigee, which is the closest point in the moon's orbit around Earth. This alignment enhances brightness and apparent size, and it exudes more prominence in the sky.
Best viewing times in the US
The wolf supermoon will appear soon after sunset. The sunset in New York occurs at 4:40 p.m. EST, while the moon rises at 4:56 p.m. EST. The sunset in Los Angeles will be at 4:56 p.m. PST, while the wolf supermoon will appear at 5:25 p.m. PST.
It is suggested to the observer to look in areas where there is a full view of the eastern horizon, such as hills or open fields. Though the moon is easily visible to the naked eye, it is possible to spot the details of the surface using binoculars.
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Reasons why January’s 'Wolf Moon' appears higher
The full moon that occurs in January has a longer path through the sky compared to other months. This is because the full moon is essentially the opposite of the sun’s position. After the winter solstice, when the sun is low, the full moon remains high, providing ample time to view it.
Skywatching opportunities continue in 2026
A year of intense activity begins with the occurrence of the wolf supermoon lunar event. Another spectacular event will be the opposition of Jupiter, which will take place a week later and will shine brightly in the sky. The next full moon will be on February 1, 2026, marked as the full moon of snow. A total of 13 full moons will occur in the year, with a blue moon and two eclipses: a total “blood moon” in March.
