Full moon

May 2026 will feature a rare occurrence of two full moons, including a Blue Moon, within the same month. The first full moon, known as the Flower Moon, will rise on May 1 at 20:46 local time in London. This month-long lunar event offers enthusiasts a chance to engage in astrophotography and witness unique celestial phenomena.

The Flower Moon is named for the spring flowers that bloom in May. It occurs approximately every 29.5 days, marking the lunar cycle. This year, both full moons in May are classified as micromoons, meaning they will appear smaller and less bright than regular full moons.

Key lunar events in May 2026:

• The Flower Moon rises on May 1 at 20:46 local time in London.
• The Blue Moon occurs on May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET.
• A full moon reaches its peak brightness when it is on the opposite side of Earth from the Sun.

During these events, the Moon may exhibit Earthshine—an illumination effect caused by sunlight reflecting off Earth’s surface. Additionally, viewers might observe atmospheric phenomena like a lunar halo, which can occur due to ice crystals in the atmosphere.

For those interested in stargazing, these full moons present an excellent opportunity for astrophotography. The Flower Moon’s visibility will extend past midnight into early Saturday morning, providing ample time for enthusiasts to capture stunning images.

However, officials have not confirmed whether any additional lunar events will coincide with these full moons. Observers should prepare for clear skies to fully appreciate this celestial spectacle.