Overview
- The second full moon in May will peak early Sunday, May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET, according to the Farmer's Almanac and multiple outlets reporting the official timing.
- Because the Moon will be near apogee this full phase is a micromoon and will look slightly smaller and less bright than a typical full moon, though most people will notice only a subtle difference.
- Observers are advised to watch around moonrise on the evening of May 30 into May 31 for the most dramatic color and apparent size near the horizon and to check local weather and light pollution first.
- No special equipment is required to enjoy the event but binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens can reveal more surface detail and improve photography in dark locations.
- This calendar Blue Moon is uncommon but not unprecedented; it makes 2026 one of the years with 13 full moons, follows the August 2024 Blue Moon, and the next similar monthly Blue Moon is expected in December 2028.