What is a Supermoon? Supermoon Dates 2026

What is a Supermoon?

A Supermoon happens when a Full Moon or a New Moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee.

During a Supermoon the Moon appears a bit larger and brighter than usual. The size difference is subtle, but the brightness increase is easier to notice, especially when the Moon is low on the horizon.

When is the Next Supermoon?

The next Supemoon is on November 24, 2026. The Moon will be at a distance of approximately 363,315 kms from Earth.

Full Supermoons of 2026

Here are the Full Supermoons of 2026, listed with their distances from Earth.

• The December 24, 2026 Full Moon will be the closest Full Supermoon of the year.

New Supermoons of 2026

• The closest New Supermoon of 2026 occurs on June 15.

Why does the Moon’s distance change?

The Moon does not orbit Earth in a perfect circle. Its distance varies by about 50,000 kilometers between apogee, the farthest point, and perigee, the closest point.

At perigee, the Moon is roughly 363,000 kilometers away. At apogee, it can be more than 405,000 kilometers distant.

This changing distance is the reason we get supermoons and micromoons during different full Moons each year.

How much bigger does a Supermoon look?

Compared to an average full Moon, a supermoon can appear about 7 percent larger in diameter and up to 15 percent brighter.

To the naked eye, this difference is modest. Many people notice it most when comparing photos or when the Moon rises near buildings or trees. This visual trick, called the Moon illusion, can make the supermoon feel dramatic even though the size change is small.

Does a Supermoon affect Earth?

Supermoons slightly enhance ocean tides, producing what are known as perigean spring tides. These tides are higher than average but usually not extreme on their own.

They do not cause earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or major disasters. Those claims have no scientific basis.

That said, when a supermoon coincides with storms or high winds, coastal flooding can become more noticeable.

How is a Supermoon different from a Micromoon?

A micromoon occurs when a full Moon happens near apogee, the farthest point from Earth.

Micromoons appear smaller and dimmer than average, though the difference is even harder to notice than with supermoons.

Best ways to observe a Supermoon

You do not need a telescope to enjoy a supermoon. A clear horizon and minimal light pollution make a big difference.

Moonrise and moonset are the best times to look. The Moon appears larger near the horizon due to how our brain processes depth and distance.

Binoculars can enhance surface detail, especially along the lunar craters and maria.

Supermoons and Astrophotography

For photographers, supermoons offer excellent opportunities, but they also come with challenges.

The Moon is very bright, so shorter exposures work best. Pairing the Moon with foreground objects like monuments or landscapes adds context and scale.

Planning with a supermoon calendar helps you choose the right location and timing for striking images.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)