There Are 2 Rare Moons Coming in May. Here's What They Mean and How to Snap the Perfect Photo Of Them
If you love stargazing or just want an excuse to look up, May 2026 is delivering something special. Not one, but two full moons will light up the sky: the Flower Moon at the start of the month and a rare Blue Moon at the end. It's an unusual celestial lineup that doesn't happen often, and it gives skywatchers two chances to catch something memorable.
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The Flower Moon
The first full moon to arrive on May 1 is known as the Flower Moon. The name comes from the explosion of wildflowers across North America during this time of year, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the transition into warmer seasons.
Historically, many cultures named full moons based on seasonal changes, and this one is among the most visually poetic. It's also one of the easiest to enjoy, just look east around sunset, and you'll see it rise bright and full, staying visible throughout the night.
Beyond its beauty, the Flower Moon marks a seasonal milestone: the peak of spring and the beginning of longer, warmer nights.
The Blue Moon
Then comes the second act. On May 31, a Blue Moon will appear, defined simply as the second full moon in a single calendar month.
Despite the name, it won't actually look blue. The term refers to its rarity, not its color. Blue moons typically happen only once every two to three years, which is why the phrase "once in a blue moon" exists.
This particular Blue Moon is also a micromoon, meaning it occurs when the moon is slightly farther from Earth. That makes it appear a bit smaller and dimmer than usual, though the difference is subtle to the naked eye.
Why This Double-Moon Month Matters
Having two full moons in one month is relatively uncommon, occurring in only a small percentage of years.
Together, the Flower Moon and Blue Moon create a rare pairing: one tied to seasonal beauty and renewal, the other tied to timing and rarity. For skywatchers and photographers, it's essentially a two-for-one opportunity.
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Where To See Them Best
To get the best view:
- Look for open areas with clear horizons, such as beaches, fields, or hilltops
- Try to get away from city lights, which can dull contrast
- Check the local weather because clear skies are your biggest ally
The Flower Moon is especially striking right after sunset when it rises low on the horizon, often appearing larger due to the "moon illusion."
How To Photograph the Moon Like a Pro
You don't need expensive gear to capture a great moon shot, but a few smart techniques can make a huge difference.
1. Use a tripod: Even slight hand movement can blur moon photos. Stability is key.
2. Zoom in (optically if possible): A telephoto lens or zoom helps capture detail. Smartphone users can use optical zoom modes rather than digital zoom.
3. Lower your exposure: The moon is brighter than you think. Reducing exposure prevents it from looking like a white blob.
4. Include foreground elements: Trees, buildings, or mountains add scale and drama, especially during moonrise.
5. Shoot during moonrise or moonset: This is when the moon appears largest and most colorful, thanks to atmospheric effects.
6. Experiment with timing: Clouds, twilight, and even city skylines can add unique character to your shot.
Pro tip: timing is everything
Both moons technically peak during the day in some time zones, but they'll still appear full the night before and after. So don't stress about exact timing, just plan for clear evenings around May 1 and May 31.
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This story was originally published April 26, 2026 at 7:03 AM.