Rare Blue Moon and micromoon will appear together on May 31. Know why this rare lunar event is special and how to watch it
New Delhi: People across India and many other countries will get to see a rare Blue Moon on May 31, 2026. This special lunar event has created excitement among skywatchers and astronomy lovers because the Moon will also be a micromoon at the same time.
Astronomers said the Moon may look slightly smaller and less bright than a normal full moon because it will be farthest from Earth during this event. Even though it is called a Blue Moon, the Moon will not actually appear blue in colour.
The May 31 event is known as a “calendar Blue Moon” because it will be the second full moon in the same month. The first full moon of May, called the Flower Moon, appeared on May 1. Since the Moon completes its cycle in around 29.5 days, another full moon is happening before the month ends, creating the rare Blue Moon event.
What Is A Blue Moon?
Experts explained that a Blue Moon is linked to the timing of full moons and not the colour of the Moon.
According to the modern definition, a Blue Moon happens when two full moons appear in the same calendar month. Scientists said this does not happen very often and usually occurs once every two or three years because the lunar cycle does not perfectly match the calendar year.
Astronomers also said there is another older definition of a Blue Moon. Earlier, it was used for the third full moon in a season that has four full moons instead of the usual three. However, today most people follow the calendar-month definition.
People use the phrase “once in a blue moon” because Blue Moons happen very rarely.
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Why The May 31 Blue Moon Is Unique
Scientists said this Blue Moon is more special because it will also be a micromoon.
A micromoon happens when the full moon takes place while the Moon is near apogee, which is the farthest point in its orbit from Earth. Because of this distance, the Moon will appear a little smaller and dimmer than usual.
Experts said the difference may not be very noticeable to everyone, but people who regularly watch the sky may see that the Moon looks slightly smaller compared to a supermoon.
Reports said the Moon could appear around seven percent smaller than an average full moon.
Astronomers said the exact full moon moment will happen at around 8:45 UTC on May 31, which will be about 2:15 PM IST in India. However, the best time to watch it will be after sunset when the Moon rises in the eastern sky.
Difference Between A Blue Moon And A Supermoon
Many people think a Blue Moon and a supermoon are the same, but experts said both events are different.
Here is the difference:
- A Blue Moon happens because of the timing of full moons in a calendar month.
- A supermoon happens when the Moon comes closest to Earth during a full moon.
- A Blue Moon usually looks like a normal full moon.
- A supermoon looks bigger and brighter than usual.
The May 31 event is actually a micromoon, which is the opposite of a supermoon.
During a micromoon, the Moon appears slightly smaller because it is farther away from Earth.
Experts said supermoons can appear up to 14 percent larger and nearly 30 percent brighter compared to smaller full moons.
Astronomers said these lunar events help people understand how the Moon’s orbit and timing create different natural events in the sky.
How To Watch The Blue Moon In India
People in India will not need telescopes or special equipment to watch the Blue Moon. Experts said the Moon will rise shortly after sunset on May 31 and will stay visible throughout the night if the weather remains clear.
Astronomers advised people to watch the event from places with less light pollution, such as rooftops, open grounds, villages, hill stations and countryside areas.
Experts also shared some simple viewing tips:
- Look toward the eastern sky during moonrise for the best view.
- The Moon may look larger during moonrise because of a visual effect called the “moon illusion.”
- Binoculars can help people see more details on the Moon’s surface.
- Bright planets like Venus and Jupiter may also be visible near the Moon.
- Photographers can take better pictures shortly after sunset when the Moon may appear orange due to Earth’s atmosphere.
Why People Find Blue Moons Interesting
Rare lunar events have fascinated people for centuries because they combine science, beauty and cultural beliefs. In many ancient civilizations, unusual moons were considered important signs connected to seasons and spirituality.
Even today, Blue Moons attract the attention of photographers, amateur astronomers and social media users around the world.
Astronomy reports said the year 2026 will have 13 full moons instead of the usual 12. The year will also include several supermoons, micromoons and lunar eclipses.
Astrology followers have also connected the Blue Moon with emotional changes and transformation, although scientists said there is no scientific proof for such beliefs.
Rare Chance To Enjoy A Beautiful Sky Event
Astronomers said the May 31 Blue Moon will give people a rare chance to enjoy one of the year’s biggest sky events.
Although the Moon will not actually turn blue, experts said the combination of a Blue Moon and a micromoon makes this event very unusual and memorable.
Scientists encouraged people to step outside after sunset, look toward the eastern sky and enjoy the rare lunar event with family and friends.
