Residents in Texas and across the nation will have the opportunity to witness a rare celestial event on May 31, 2026, as the blue moon makes its appearance. This particular blue moon is noteworthy not only because it is the second full moon of the month but also because it will be a micromoon, appearing smaller than usual.

Understanding the Blue Moon

The term ‘blue moon’ is not a scientific one but has become a popular way to describe the second full moon in a single month. According to astronomer Catherine Pilachowski, this phenomenon occurs every two to three years. Despite its name, the moon does not actually appear blue. The term originates from a 16th-century idiom referring to something rare.

The last blue moon was a blue supermoon in August 2024, an event that happens approximately every ten years. Interestingly, a year can also feature two blue moons, with the next occurrence expected in January and March of 2037, as noted by The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Viewing the May 2026 Blue Moon

The blue moon will reach its peak fullness at 4:45 a.m. ET on May 31, making the late hours of May 30 and the early hours of May 31 the best times for viewing. This blue moon will also be a micromoon, meaning it will be at its farthest point from Earth, approximately 252,360 miles away. As a result, it will appear about 6% to 7% smaller than the average full moon and 12% to 14% smaller than a supermoon.

For those interested in astronomy and celestial events, this blue moon provides a unique opportunity to observe a rare occurrence in the night sky. Whether you’re in Texas or elsewhere, be sure to mark your calendars for this special event.

Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.