The next astronomical cycle of full moons will feature a rare event: two full moons in the same month, a phenomenon popularly known as a “Blue Moon“.
The year 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional period for astronomy enthusiasts. Unlike most years, which host 12 full moon phases, the 2026 full moon calendar will record a total of 13 events.
This anomaly in the lunar cycle will allow sky watchers to enjoy an additional display of complete nighttime illumination.
This phenomenon occurs because the synodic cycle (the time it takes for the Moon to complete its phases) is approximately 29.5 days.
Being shorter than the average duration of the months in the Gregorian calendar, every two or three years enough days accumulate for a single calendar month to contain two full moons, or for the annual total to increase to thirteen.
The arrival of the “Blue Moon” in April
Within the 2026 full moon calendar, the month of April stands out above the rest. During this period, the so-called “Blue Moon” will occur. This term does not refer to the color of the satellite, but to the coincidence of two full moons within a span of 30 days.
In 2026, the first full moon of April will occur on the 1st, while the second will take place on the 30th, closing the month with a flourish for photography and astronomical observation.
Complete schedule of full phases for 2026
For those who wish to plan their observations, these are the confirmed dates on which the Earth’s natural satellite will reach its maximum illumination during each month of 2026:
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January: 3rd
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February: 1st
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March: 3rd
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April: 1st and 30th (Double full moon)
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May: 30th
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June: 29th
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July: 28th
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August: 27th
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September: 25th
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October: 25th
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November: 24th
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December: 24th
This constant display of celestial events ensures that, practically every four weeks, the night sky offers a natural spectacle that does not require complex instruments to be appreciated, although the use of binoculars or basic telescopes allows for a clearer distinction of the craters and seas on the lunar surface.
