In May 2026, skywatchers in the UK will witness a rare occurrence: two full moons, including a Blue Moon, within the same month. The first full moon, known as the Flower Moon, rises on May 1 at 20:46 local time in London. This lunar event not only captivates enthusiasts but also provides excellent opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography.
Key details:
- The Flower Moon is named after the spring flowers that bloom in May.
- Both full moons in May 2026 are classified as micromoons, meaning they appear smaller and less bright than regular full moons.
- The Flower Moon reaches its peak brightness at 1:23 p.m. ET on May 1.
- The Blue Moon occurs on May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET.
- A full moon happens approximately every 29.5 days.
- The lunar halo—a ring around the moon—can form due to ice crystals in the atmosphere.
Interestingly, when low on the horizon, the moon may appear orange or red due to atmospheric scattering. This effect can create stunning visuals for photographers. The Flower Moon will be visible past midnight into the early hours of Saturday morning, providing ample time for those eager to capture its beauty.
Yet, while these celestial events are exciting, some uncertainties linger. For instance, how many people will take advantage of this unique opportunity for astrophotography? Will weather conditions cooperate with skywatchers? As we approach these dates, one thing is clear: May 2026 promises to be an extraordinary month for lunar enthusiasts.