Supermoon in January 2026: When and Where to Look for the Wolf Disk in the Sky.

According to ТСН: The astronomical calendar for 2026 opens with an exciting event that enthusiasts of night sky observations call a 'cosmic explosion.' The first full moon, dubbed 'wolf,' will coincide with perigee — the moment when the Moon is closest to Earth.

Why is it called a 'supermoon'

A supermoon is a phenomenon when a full moon reaches its perigee on its elliptical orbit. According to NASA, during this period, the satellite can appear up to 14% larger and shine 30% brighter than a typical full moon.

This happens because the Moon's orbit is not a perfect circle and the distance to Earth constantly changes.

When will it be visible

The peak of the full moon will occur on Saturday, January 3rd, at 5:03 AM Eastern Time (which corresponds to noon in Ukraine, when the Moon is not visible).

But do not be disheartened. The best views can be observed during the Moon's rise on the eastern horizon:

• on the evening of Friday, January 2nd.

• on the evening of Sunday, January 4th.

When the Moon hangs low on the horizon, a 'moon illusion' occurs — an optical illusion that makes it appear huge against the backdrop of trees and buildings. This phenomenon is vividly visible to the naked eye.

Bonus: Bright Jupiter

At the beginning of January, the Moon will be positioned in the constellation Gemini. Nearby, Jupiter will be visible, reaching its peak brightness of the year.

The Legend of the 'Wolves'

The name 'wolf moon' has its roots in the traditions of Native Americans and European peoples. It is associated with the fact that during the winter period, wolves often howled outside settlements.

Despite folklore linking this howling to hunger, modern scientists believe that the animals mark their territory and communicate with the pack.

This is just the first of three Supermoons in 2026. The end of the year promises to be even less grand: a Supermoon is expected in December, which will come closest to Earth since 2019.

Let us remind you whether the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is a spaceship of aliens. Scientists have released the results of their search for technosignatures using the Green Bank telescope.

Thus, the next few days will be special for sky watchers. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy bright astronomical phenomena and touch the magic of the cosmos. The supermoon and bright Jupiter will turn the night sky into a true exhibition, so don’t forget to look up!