New Jersey residents who look to the sky early this weekend will be treated to a striking celestial display as the first full moon of 2026 rises in all its brilliance. Known as the Wolf Moon, this year’s edition carries extra visual impact, appearing as a supermoon that will look larger and brighter than an average full moon.
The moon will reach peak fullness at 5:03 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, but skywatchers won’t need to be awake at dawn to enjoy it. The Wolf Supermoon is expected to appear nearly full on both Friday and Saturday nights, offering multiple opportunities to catch the glowing orb as it rises above the horizon.
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the point in its orbit when it is closest to Earth. Because of that proximity, the moon can appear noticeably bigger and up to 15 percent brighter, especially when viewed just after moonrise. In winter, when the air is often clearer and crisper, the effect can be even more dramatic.
The name “Wolf Moon” dates back centuries and is traditionally associated with January. Historically, the term is linked to the howls of wolves heard during the coldest months of the year, when food was scarce and the nights were long. While the name carries folklore, the phenomenon itself is a reminder of how seasonal rhythms have long influenced human observation of the night sky.
Weather conditions will play a key role in visibility. Clear skies will provide the best views, particularly in areas away from city lights. Coastal regions, open fields, and elevated spots can offer especially picturesque vantage points. Even in suburban neighborhoods, the moon’s brightness should be hard to miss as it climbs into the sky.
Astronomy enthusiasts recommend stepping outside shortly after sunset to watch the moonrise, when it often appears largest due to an optical illusion created by the horizon. A pair of binoculars can enhance the experience, revealing surface details such as craters and shadowed regions, though the moon will be easily visible to the naked eye.
The Wolf Supermoon also serves as a seasonal marker, arriving just days after the new year and symbolizing a fresh cycle in the lunar calendar. For many, it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and enjoy a moment of natural beauty during the quieter stretch following the holidays.
As New Jersey heads deeper into winter, this weekend’s lunar event offers a simple but memorable reason to step outside and look up. For continued updates and forecasts tied to the state’s weather report, Sunset Daily News New Jersey will keep readers informed about what’s happening above and around the Garden State.
