Skygazers across the Northern Hemisphere can look forward to the Full Snow Moon appearing this weekend. The celestial event will reach its peak illumination on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 5:09 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST). Observers will find the moon appearing bright and full on both Sunday and Monday nights.[forbes+5]
The Snow Moon's Origins
This full moon carries the traditional name "Snow Moon," a moniker rooted in the historical observations of Native American tribes and early European settlers. February is historically the snowiest month in the United States, a fact that gives the moon its distinctive name.Captain Jonathan Carver, who visited with the Naudowessie (Dakota) in the 1760s, noted that the name Snow Moon was used because "more snow commonly falls during this month than any other in the winter."[forbes+7]
Beyond the "Snow Moon," this full moon goes by several other names reflecting the harsh conditions of late winter. It is also known as the "Hunger Moon" due to the scarcity of food and difficulty in hunting during heavy snowfalls.Other traditional names include the Bald Eagle Moon, Bear Moon, Raccoon Moon, Groundhog Moon, Goose Moon, and the Month of the Bony Moon, each reflecting animal behaviors or environmental conditions observed by various Indigenous peoples.[starwalk+6]
Best Viewing Times and Tips
The most dramatic views of the Snow Moon typically occur when it first emerges above the eastern horizon during dusk.This period, often called "blue hour," creates a striking contrast as the bright moon rises into the fading daylight.For an optimal viewing experience, find an elevated location, an open field, or an east-facing coastline with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon.[forbes+3]
While the moon technically reaches full illumination at a precise moment, it will appear completely full to the casual observer for about two nights—the night before and the night after its peak. This means if clouds obscure the view on Sunday, February 1, there is another opportunity to witness its glow on Monday, February 2. Full moons rise around sunset and set near sunrise, as the moon sits directly opposite the sun in the sky.[almanac+3]
Notable Celestial Events
This February's full moon is the second of 13 full moons expected in 2026. Beyond its radiant appearance, the Snow Moon period offers additional celestial highlights. On February 2, the day after the moon is officially full, an occultation of Regulus will be visible from parts of North America. Regulus, the 21st brightest star in the night sky, will be briefly obscured by the moon, an event described as rare and not expected to repeat until 2035. The full moon will also be near the famous Beehive Cluster (M44) in the constellation Cancer.[forbes+3]
Looking ahead, the new moon following the Snow Moon, on February 17, will bring an annular "ring of fire" solar eclipse. This eclipse will cover 96% of the sun for up to 2 minutes and 20 seconds, though it will only be visible from remote regions of Antarctica.[starwalk+2]
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Historically, full moons served as crucial markers for tracking seasons and planning activities like planting and hunting. On a spiritual and symbolic level, the Snow Moon often represents themes of deep reflection, patience, emotional clarity, and renewal. It encourages individuals to let go of what feels burdensome or outdated, creating space for new beginnings even amidst the lingering cold of winter. This period can also inspire mindfulness and inner balance as the Northern Hemisphere anticipates the subtle stirrings of life beneath the snow, signaling the approach of spring.[almanac+4]
The Snow Moon is a prominent celestial event, marking a significant point in the late winter season. Its appearance provides a chance for reflection and appreciation of the night sky before the arrival of spring.[lonerwolf]
