The night sky across the United States will offer a series of captivating celestial events this week and into the weekend, featuring April's full Pink Moon, the brilliant star Spica, and the potentially dazzling Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS). Skygazers have a unique opportunity to witness these phenomena, with the Pink Moon peaking mid-week and a rare sungrazing comet making its closest approach to the sun by the weekend.
April's Pink Moon Illuminates the Sky
The full Pink Moon will reach its peak illumination on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 10:12 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is 7:12 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).For those in the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) zone, the peak occurs at 2:11 a.m. on April 2.However, the moon will appear full and remarkably bright in the sky for roughly a day before and after this exact moment, making it a prominent feature through Thursday evening.[forbes+4]
Despite its name, the Pink Moon does not actually appear pink. The moniker comes from the Phlox subulata wildflower, commonly known as moss pink, which blooms across eastern North America in early spring.When the moon rises just after sunset, it often takes on an orange or copper hue. This happens because moonlight passes through more of Earth's atmosphere, scattering blue and violet light and allowing warmer colors to reach our eyes.[almanac+3]
To best observe the Pink Moon, find an elevated spot or an open area with a clear view of the eastern horizon. The moon will be most dramatic as it appears shortly after sunset, ascending into the twilight sky.This April's full moon also holds religious significance, as it is the Paschal Moon, which determines the date of Easter Sunday, set for April 5 in 2026.[forbes+5]
Spica Shines Alongside the Moon
Accompanying the Pink Moon in the sky will be Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo.Spica is the 15th brightest star visible in the night sky.On the evenings of April 1 and April 2, observers will see Spica shining close to the moon.[skyatnightmagazine+10]
Finding Spica is relatively simple using a method known as "star-hopping." Locate the Big Dipper in the northeastern sky. Follow the curve of its handle to the bright orange star Arcturus, then continue that imaginary line to "speed on to Spica."While Spica is bright enough to be seen with the naked eye, the moon's intense glow might make it slightly harder to spot. Using binoculars can offer a clearer view.On April 2, the moon will shine less than two degrees from Spica.[forbes+6]
Comet MAPS: A High-Stakes Celestial Show
The most unpredictable, yet potentially spectacular, event of the weekend involves Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS). This comet is a "Kreutz sungrazer," meaning it will pass extraordinarily close to the sun.Its closest approach to our star, known as perihelion, is expected around April 4-5.Comet MAPS will skim less than 800,000 kilometers (approximately 487,000 miles) from the sun's surface.[forbes+12]
This extreme proximity could cause the comet to become incredibly bright, possibly even visible to the naked eye. However, it also carries a significant risk: the comet could disintegrate entirely due to the sun's intense heat and gravitational forces.If Comet MAPS survives its fiery encounter, its dazzling tail could become visible in the western twilight sky.[nationalgeographic+6]
For those hoping to catch a glimpse, the best viewing window will be 30 to 45 minutes after sunset, looking very low towards the western horizon from mid-northern latitudes.This opportunity is most likely to occur between April 4 and April 6, with a possibility extending to April 9.A clear, flat horizon and transparent skies are crucial for observation. Binoculars will likely be necessary, even if the comet brightens significantly, to distinguish its "ghostly, pencil-like trail."[forbes+6]
Astronomers advise that while comet predictions are inherently uncertain, the potential for Comet MAPS to put on a brilliant display makes it a noteworthy event for skywatchers. Another comet, C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS), is also expected to be visible in April, but its peak visibility is later in the month, around April 17, and it may require binoculars or a small telescope.[dailygalaxy+3]
This week and into the weekend offer a remarkable chance for stargazers across the U.S. to observe a beautiful lunar display and a star, alongside the dramatic potential of a sungrazing comet. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, looking up could provide a memorable experience.
