The first full moon of 2026, known as the Wolf Moon, put on a spectacular show for skygazers across the United Kingdom this weekend. This was not just any full moon, but a supermoon, appearing significantly larger and brighter in the night sky.
A Breathtaking Celestial Display
Despite bitterly cold overnight temperatures that plunged below freezing for many, visibility was excellent as the Wolf Moon reached its peak fullness at approximately 10am on Saturday, 3 January 2026. Clear skies prevailed across most of the nation, offering a perfect view of the lunar spectacle.
According to astronomers at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, a supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. This celestial alignment made the Wolf Moon appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon at its most distant point.
The Meaning Behind the Name and a Rare Year Ahead
Astronomer Jess Lee from the Royal Observatory Greenwich explained the moon's evocative name. "The January full moon is often called the Wolf Moon, a name inspired by wolves that were thought to roam during the long winter nights," she said. The title is said to stem from the howling of wolves hunting in the depths of winter.
This event marked the fourth consecutive supermoon, following October's Harvest Moon, November's Beaver Moon, and December's Cold Moon. In a fascinating twist for 2026, May will feature two full Moons, making it an exceptional year with a total of 13 full Moons instead of the usual 12.
When to See the Next Supermoon
For those who missed this weekend's luminous display, the next opportunity to witness a moon appearing so large and brilliant will not come until November 2026. Lee emphasised that no special equipment is needed to enjoy the view, stating, "It's a beautiful sight in cities and rural areas alike."
While the moon was at its most impressive overnight, conditions remained chilly at its peak, with temperatures around 0°C for many at 10am. Only south-west England and west Wales enjoyed milder conditions, with some spots reaching 4°C.
