Key Highlights
- 13 must-see moon events in 2026 including eclipses, supermoons, and conjunctions.
- January will see the first of three supermoons in 2026.
- A total lunar eclipse on March 2-3, 2026, will be visible from parts of western North America.
- The closest supermoon since 2019 is scheduled for December 23, 2026.
Stargazing: A Year of Lunar Wonders in 2026
In the year ahead, lunar enthusiasts will be treated to a stunning array of celestial phenomena. From January’s first supermoon to August’s dramatic total solar eclipse, every month promises a breathtaking display under the night sky.
January: The First Supermoon of 2026
The year 2026 begins with a lunar spectacle as the January Wolf Moon transforms into a supermoon. This phenomenon occurs when the moon is at or near its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. While this will be the last of four consecutive supermoons from late 2025, skywatchers are advised to mark their calendars for January 3rd, as they won’t see a similar event until 2027.
February: The “Ring of Fire” Annular Solar Eclipse
The month of February brings both day and night excitement. On February 17th, an annular solar eclipse will dazzle scientists at research stations in Antarctica and parts of southern Africa and Argentina. Although the moon will block up to 96% of the sun’s center for up to two minutes and twenty seconds, this event remains a rare treat for most observers.
February to March: A Rare Conjunction
A conjunction between the crescent moon and Mercury will occur on February 18th. This relatively rare occurrence can be observed about forty-five minutes after sunset in the western sky, requiring binoculars to catch a glimpse of the elusive planet.
March: The Total Lunar Eclipse
The month of March brings a total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “blood moon.” This event will take place on March 2-3 and can be seen from parts of western North America, Australia, New Zealand, East Asia, and the Pacific. For those in these regions, the full Worm Moon will turn reddish-orange for fifty-eight minutes.
April: The Pleiades Conjunction
A spectacular conjunction between a waxing crescent moon, Venus, and the Pleiades star cluster can be observed on April 19th. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to witness celestial objects closely aligned in the night sky, perfect for stargazers with an unobstructed western horizon.
August: The Total Solar Eclipse
The August sky will host another total solar eclipse visible from parts of Europe. While not directly observable by all, this event promises a spectacular display as the moon’s silhouette blocks up to 96% of the sun for up to two minutes and eighteen seconds over eastern Greenland, western Iceland, and northern Spain.
August: The Partial Lunar Eclipse
A partial lunar eclipse will grace the skies on August 27-28th. This event, visible from North America, South America, Europe, and Africa, offers a more subdued yet beautiful sight as the moon’s edge gradually moves into Earth’s shadow.
September: The Beehive Cluster Conjunction
The month of September brings a closer look at the Beehive Cluster. About forty-five minutes before sunrise on September 8th, an unobstructed eastern horizon will reveal a lovely waxing crescent moon just beneath this cluster of stars, which contains approximately one thousand celestial bodies.
September: The Moon and Saturn
Saturn’s prominence in the night sky will be most noticeable when it passes close to the waning moon on September 26th. This event offers a rare opportunity for stargazers to observe these two celestial bodies together.
October: The Moon and Jupiter Conjunction
A very close conjunction between the moon and Jupiter will occur on October 6th, providing an awe-inspiring view just before sunrise. At only ten arc seconds apart (three-thousandths of a degree), this rare sight is not to be missed.
November: The Moon and Mars Conjunction
The November sky will host a conjunction between the moon and Mars, visible from about forty-five minutes before sunrise on November 2nd. This event marks a significant moment as the Red Planet makes its appearance in the southeastern sky after being absent for much of the year.
December: The Closest Supermoon Since 2019
To end the year, December 23rd will see the closest supermoon since 2019. This full moon will edge out the February 19, 2019, supermoon by about sixty miles (one hundred kilometers), making it the largest and brightest in nearly eight years.
As stargazers prepare their telescopes and binoculars for these events, they are reminded that each lunar spectacle offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of our universe. For more detailed guidance on observing these celestial phenomena, visit WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com or Jamie Carter’s book “Stargazing In 2026: 50 Things To See In The Night Sky From North America.”
