May 2026 will feature a rare occurrence of two full moons, including a Blue Moon, within the same month. The first full moon is known as the Flower Moon and rises on May 1 at 20:46 local time in London.
The Flower Moon is named for the spring flowers that bloom in May. It is an excellent opportunity for stargazing and astrophotography.
The second full moon, classified as a Blue Moon, will occur on May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET. This lunar event happens approximately every 29.5 days.
Both full moons in May 2026 are classified as micromoons. This means they are smaller and less bright than regular full moons.
During these nights, atmospheric conditions may cause the moon to appear orange or red when low on the horizon due to scattering effects.
A lunar halo—a ring around the moon—can also form due to ice crystals in Earth’s upper atmosphere. The diameter of this halo can reach about 22 degrees.
The Flower Moon will be visible past midnight into the early hours of Saturday morning. Observers might experience the Moon illusion, making it appear larger when close to the horizon.
As these lunar events approach, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are preparing for what promises to be an exciting month for sky watchers.