NAIROBI, Kenya — The first full moon of 2026, known as the Wolf Moon, will rise early on Saturday, January 3, 2026, offering skywatchers a striking lunar spectacle as it peaks at full illumination in the early morning hours.
What Is the Wolf Moon?
The Wolf Moon is the traditional name for January’s full moon, rooted in Native American and early colonial almanac traditions that associate this lunar phase with mid‑winter and the howling of wolves.
First Full Moon of the Year
This year’s first full moon also qualifies as a supermoon — a term used to describe a full moon that occurs when the Moon is near perigee, its closest point to Earth in orbit.
During a supermoon, the lunar disk can appear noticeably larger and brighter than average.
Astronomers expect the Wolf Supermoon to peak on January 3, 2026, at approximately 5:03 a.m. EST, though viewers can enjoy its full appearance the evening before and after as well.
Why It Appears Bigger and Brighter
When the Moon is at perigee, its proximity to Earth causes it to look larger and more luminous in the sky.
According to space agencies, a supermoon can appear up to about 14% larger and roughly 30% brighter than a typical full moon, making this event especially noticeable to casual observers.
Best Time to Look Up
While the Moon reaches its official full phase in the early hours of January 3, the most dramatic views typically occur around moonrise at dusk when the bright lunar disk climbs above the eastern horizon.
Skywatchers are encouraged to find open areas with an unobstructed view to the east, such as parks or hills, for the best sighting experience.
What Comes Next
The Wolf Supermoon also marks the first of 13 full moons in 2026, including other unique lunar events such as a Blue Moon and eclipses later in the year.
How to View the Wolf Supermoon in Kenya
Kenyan skywatchers will have the opportunity to witness January’s Wolf Supermoon, the first full moon of 2026, appearing larger and brighter than usual. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Best Time to Watch
- The Moon reaches peak fullness at 5:03 a.m. EST (around 1:03 p.m. Kenya Time) on Saturday, January 3, 2026.
- The most dramatic views occur at moonrise in the evening of January 2, as the Moon climbs above the eastern horizon.
- Viewing the moon at dusk or early night often makes it appear larger due to the “Moon illusion,” especially when it’s near buildings or trees.
2. Where to Watch
- Find open spaces with a clear eastern horizon. Parks, hills, rooftops, or open fields in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, or other towns are ideal.
- Avoid areas with tall buildings or bright street lights to prevent the moon from being obscured or washed out.
3. What to Bring
- Binoculars or a telescope can enhance details like lunar craters and mountains.
- Camera or smartphone for photography; use a tripod for sharper night shots.
- Optional: Red flashlight to preserve night vision while adjusting your camera.
4. Safety and Comfort
- Dress appropriately for the evening or early morning chill, especially in high-altitude areas like Nairobi.
- Carry a thermos with hot drinks if planning to stay outdoors for a long viewing session.
- Avoid looking directly at bright lights near the horizon, as it can temporarily affect night vision.
5. Fun Facts to Enhance the Experience
- This Wolf Supermoon is the last supermoon of 2026, and it appears around 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.
- January’s “Wolf Moon” gets its name from Native American and European traditions, symbolizing mid-winter and the howling of wolves.
