First Supermoon of 2026 to Light Up Skies on January 3: When and How to Watch

The first supermoon of 2026 is set to dazzle skywatchers on the night of January 3, when the full Moon will appear noticeably larger and brighter than usual. During the event, the Moon is expected to look about 30 per cent brighter and 14 per cent larger than the smallest full Moon of the year. In India, it will be visible shortly after sunset.

Apart from its size and brightness, the supermoon is also expected to take on a striking orange-yellow hue as it rises, while sitting at a distance of about 362,641 kilometres from Earth.

What is a supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when a full Moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, a point known as perigee. At this time, the Moon lies opposite the Sun, allowing its near side to be fully illuminated. Because of its proximity, the Moon appears larger and brighter than an average full Moon.

When and where to watch

According to space.com, the supermoon will reach its peak at 5:30 am EST (4 pm IST) on January 3. However, the best viewing experience usually comes around moonrise.

In India, skywatchers can catch the supermoon shortly after sunset, around 5:45 pm to 6 pm IST. NASA data shows the Moon will be at a distance of 362,641 km and visible in its full phase during this period.

Across the world, the supermoon will appear at different local times — at 5:30 am EST in New York, 10:03 am GMT in London, 7:30 pm in Tokyo, and 9:03 pm in Sydney.

As the Moon rises closer to the horizon, it may appear orange or yellow in colour and seem unusually large due to the “moon illusion”, a visual effect that makes low-hanging celestial objects appear bigger than they actually are.

Why it’s called the Wolf Moon

January’s full Moon is traditionally known as the Wolf Moon, a name rooted in Northern Hemisphere folklore that associates the long winter nights with the howling of wolves. It is also sometimes referred to as the “Moon after Yule”.

The supermoon can be enjoyed with the naked eye, and no special equipment is required. However, binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view and help observers spot surface details such as craters and lunar plains.