Minneapolis, Minnesota — The first weekend of the New Year is delivering a rare and visually striking night-sky event across Minnesota, as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, marking the last chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. With January’s cold air often bringing clearer skies, viewing conditions could be especially sharp across the Twin Cities and much of the state.
Astronomy experts say the timing of this event makes it particularly memorable for Minnesota skywatchers.
When the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 4 a.m. CST. However, the most dramatic viewing opportunity will arrive Saturday evening, when the moon rises shortly after sunset.
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, sunset occurs just after 4:35 p.m., with moonrise following during early twilight. This places the moon’s appearance squarely in the blue-hour window, when fading daylight enhances the moon’s apparent size, brightness, and color as it lifts above the eastern horizon.
This optical effect often makes the moon appear larger and more vivid than later in the night.
Why this full moon is a supermoon
This Wolf Moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs near perigee, the point when the Moon is closest to Earth in its orbit.
During this event:
- The moon can appear up to 14 percent larger
- It may look around 30 percent brighter than an average full moon
- Surface details can appear more pronounced to the naked eye
Observers in Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, and across central and northern Minnesota should see the moon rise Saturday evening and remain visible for much of the night, climbing higher in the sky than most full moons seen later in the year.
Why January’s full moon stands out in Minnesota
The name Wolf Moon comes from winter folklore linked to the howling of wolves during the coldest weeks of the year. Beyond its name, January’s full moon is astronomically unique.
In the Northern Hemisphere, January’s full moon travels higher across the sky than any other full moon of the year, giving Minnesota one of the longest viewing windows nationwide. That higher arc means the moon stays visible longer and clears obstacles like trees and buildings more easily.
Best places to watch the supermoon rise
For the most impressive view, skywatchers are encouraged to:
- Face east at moonrise
- Choose an open field, frozen lake, river valley, or elevated overlook
- Avoid tall buildings and dense tree lines
- Minimize artificial light when possible
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While the moon will remain full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the strongest contrast and best photo opportunities, especially as the moon climbs through twilight into darker skies.
Clear skies will play a key role, but even brief breaks in cloud cover could offer dramatic views due to the moon’s brightness.
Why this is the last chance until 2026
After this weekend, another supermoon will not occur again until late 2026, making this event especially significant for casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
While full moons will continue each month, none will appear as close, as large, or as bright as this one for nearly two years.
A memorable way to start the New Year
Astronomy experts say this Wolf Moon is an ideal way to open the year, combining favorable timing, orbital alignment, and winter clarity into one easily visible event.
Whether viewed from a city park, a frozen lakeshore, or a quiet rural road, this weekend’s supermoon offers a rare opportunity that won’t return anytime soon.
Are you planning to step outside and watch the supermoon rise over Minnesota? Share where you’ll be viewing from and what you notice in the comments, and join others across the state welcoming the New Year under an unforgettable winter sky.
