In May 2026, the night sky will dazzle with a rare cosmic spectacle: two full moons, including a Blue Moon, captivating stargazers across the UK. The first full moon, known as the Flower Moon, rises on May 1 at 20:46 local time in London. This lunar event not only marks the arrival of spring blooms but also sets the stage for an extraordinary month of celestial wonders.
The Flower Moon is named for the vibrant spring flowers that burst into bloom during this time. It’s a moment when many take to their cameras—astrophotography enthusiasts especially—eager to capture its beauty. As it rises, observers might notice its orange or red hue near the horizon due to atmospheric scattering.
Key lunar events in May 2026:
- The Flower Moon on May 1 peaks at 1:23 p.m. ET.
- The Blue Moon occurs on May 31 at 4:45 a.m. ET.
- Both moons are classified as micromoons, appearing smaller and less bright than typical full moons.
But what exactly is a Blue Moon? It’s simply the second full moon occurring within a single calendar month—a phenomenon that happens approximately every two to three years. In contrast, the Flower Moon is more common, occurring annually.
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