February’s Full Snow Moon Illuminates the Night Sky
This weekend, stargazers should look towards the eastern sky for February’s Full Snow Moon, which will peak at 5:09 p.m. ET on Sunday. The moon will appear fullest near sunset, providing a stunning view as it rises low in the sky. It will also look full on Saturday and Monday, offering ample opportunity for observation.
What Is the Snow Moon?
February’s full moon is traditionally called the Snow Moon due to the heavy snowfall common across North America during this month. The Farmers’ Almanac notes this seasonal naming convention. Various indigenous tribes also have their own names for this moon, including:
- Sleet Moon (Comanche)
- Wind Moon (Creek Tribe)
- Crow Moon (Shawnee)
Upcoming NASA Missions
The sighting of this moon coincides with NASA’s Artemis II mission preparations. This historic mission may lift off within February, making it a perfect time for enthusiasts to familiarize themselves with lunar features. Noah Petro, a leading expert at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, encourages observers to engage with the moon’s geography during this period.
Exploring Lunar Features
Observers can identify light and dark areas on the moon’s surface with the naked eye. For a more detailed view, using a telescope is recommended. This allows for the observation of craters and other fascinating features, enhancing the overall experience for casual moon lovers.
Future Full Moons of 2026
As the year progresses, several full moons will occur. Here’s what to expect in 2026:
| Date | Name |
|---|---|
| March 3 | Worm Moon |
| April 1 | Pink Moon |
| May 1 | Flower Moon |
| May 31 | Blue Moon |
| June 29 | Strawberry Moon |
| July 29 | Buck Moon |
| August 28 | Sturgeon Moon |
| September 26 | Harvest Moon |
| October 26 | Hunter’s Moon |
| November 24 | Beaver Moon |
| December 23 | Cold Moon |
Upcoming Lunar Eclipses
Look for a total lunar eclipse on March 3, visible from Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. During this phenomenon, the moon will darken as it moves into Earth’s shadow. The moon may turn a striking red, often referred to as a “blood moon.” This occurs when sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, enhancing the red hues.
A partial lunar eclipse will also take place from August 27 to 28, observable from the Americas, Europe, Africa, and parts of Western Asia. In this case, only a portion of the moon will enter the shadow, creating a unique visual experience.
For detailed timing and visibility, check the official lunar calendars available online. This February, take advantage of the Full Snow Moon and prepare for upcoming celestial events.
