As the weekend approaches, sky gazers are in for a treat with February’s full moon, known as the “Snow Moon,” set to grace the night sky. Despite being the smallest full moon of the year, the Snow Moon promises a captivating sight as it rises during dusk on Saturday, February 24.
The Snow Moon’s Appearance and Significance
The Snow Moon, often referred to as the Hungry Moon, Storm Moon, Wolf Moon, and Candles Moon, is expected to paint the sky with its luminous glow. Its arrival coincides with the Lantern Festival, also known as Shang Yuan or the Yuan Xiao Jie, marking a significant event in the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Best Time for Observation
While the Snow Moon will officially reach its full phase during daylight hours in North America at 7:30 a.m. EST, the optimal time for observation will be during its moonrise later in the day. To determine the precise moonrise time for your location, consult a moonrise and moonset calculator.
Observation Tips
Look towards the eastern horizon just after sunset on Saturday to catch a glimpse of the Snow Moon in its resplendent orange hue, a result of Earth’s atmosphere. To maximize your viewing experience, position yourself at a high vantage point with an unobstructed eastern view. While the naked eye suffices for observing the full moonrise, binoculars can enhance your ability to discern craters and other lunar features. Additionally, the moon will appear bright and full not only on Saturday but also on Friday and Sunday nights.
Upcoming Lunar Events
Following the Snow Moon, sky enthusiasts can anticipate the arrival of the “Worm Moon” on March 25, coinciding with a slight penumbral lunar eclipse. This event sets the stage for an even more remarkable occurrence on April 8: a total solar eclipse. The solar eclipse will be most visible within a narrow path of totality stretching across northwest Mexico, 15 U.S. states, and six Canadian provinces.