The first full moon of 2024, also known as the Wolf Moon, will grace the sky this week, and it will be accompanied by a spectacular show of planets. Here’s everything you need to know about this lunar event and how to enjoy it.
What is the Wolf Moon, and why is it called that?
The Wolf Moon is the name given to the first full moon of the year, which usually occurs in January. The name comes from Native American and colonial traditions, which associated the January full moon with the howling of hungry wolves in the winter. Other names for this full moon include the center moon, the cold moon, the freeze-up moon, and the spirit moon.
The Wolf Moon is not a supermoon, a blood moon, or a blue moon, which are terms that describe the size, color, or frequency of the full moon. However, it is still a beautiful sight to behold, as it illuminates the night sky with its bright and silvery glow.
When and where can I see the Wolf Moon?
The Wolf Moon will reach its peak on Thursday, January 28, at 12:54 p.m. ET, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory. However, it will not be visible until later in the evening, when it rises above the horizon. The exact time of moonrise and moonset depends on your location, but you can use this moonrise and moonset calculator to find out the best time to watch the Wolf Moon in your area.
The Wolf Moon will be visible throughout the night until it sets on Friday morning. The best time to see it is when it is close to the horizon, as it will appear larger and more colorful due to the atmospheric effects. You can also use a telescope or binoculars to get a closer look at the lunar features, such as the craters, mountains, and seas.
What planets will be visible under the wolf moon?
The Wolf Moon will not be the only celestial attraction this week, as it will also make some planets more visible in the early morning sky. On Friday, January 29, the moon’s light will reflect off Venus, Mercury, and Mars, creating a stunning planetary trio.
Venus will be the first to rise at 5:11 a.m. ET, followed by Mercury at 6:05 a.m. ET, and Mars at 6:09 a.m. ET. The three planets will form a diagonal line in the southeast sky, with Venus being the brightest and Mars being the faintest. You will need a clear and unobstructed view of the horizon to see them, and you may also need a pair of binoculars to spot Mercury, as it is very close to the sun.
How do I enjoy the Wolf Moon and the planetary show?
The Wolf Moon and the planetary show are a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the night sky and to learn more about the moon and the planets. Here are some tips on how to make the most of this lunar event:
- Check the weather forecast and the moonrise and moonset times for your location, and plan for where and when you will watch the Wolf Moon and the planets.
- Find a dark and safe spot away from city lights and pollution, and make sure you have a clear view of the horizon. You may also want to bring a blanket, a chair, or a mat to make yourself comfortable.
- Use a star map app or a website, such as Sky Map or Stellarium, to identify the moon and the planets and learn more about their names, distances, and phases.
- Take photos or videos of the Wolf Moon and the planets, and share them with your friends and family on social media. You can also join online communities of stargazers, such as [Space.com] or [EarthSky], and see how other people around the world are enjoying this lunar event.
- Have fun and enjoy the show!
