May 2026 promises an extraordinary spectacle for skywatchers with a rare occurrence of 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. A fascinating opportunity awaits for those interested in astrophotography and lunar events.
The Flower Moon is named for the vibrant spring flowers that bloom during this time. Following closely, the second full moon will occur on May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET and is classified as a Blue Moon—a term used to describe the second full moon in a calendar month.
Interestingly, both moons in May 2026 are categorized as micromoons. This means they will appear smaller and less bright than their supermoon counterparts—typically about 14% larger and 30% brighter than regular full moons. The average interval between full moons is approximately 29.5 days.
The Flower Moon will be visible well into the early hours of Saturday morning, providing ample time for stargazing enthusiasts to capture its beauty. The atmospheric conditions may also create stunning effects—like the moon appearing orange or red when low on the horizon due to scattering.
A lunar halo might accompany these celestial events—a ring around the moon caused by ice crystals in Earth’s upper atmosphere. This phenomenon adds an extra layer of intrigue for those keen on observing and photographing these lunar displays.
As we approach this remarkable month, there remains uncertainty about how weather conditions will affect visibility. Clear skies are essential for optimal viewing and photography during these lunar events.