03/27/2026
👉Upcoming Astronomical Events – April & May 2026 🌌
Skywatchers have several exciting celestial events to look forward to in April and May 2026. From glowing full moons to spectacular meteor showers, the night sky will offer plenty to enjoy.
🌕 April 2 – Full Pink Moon
🕒 02:13 UTC
The night sky will shine brightly as the Moon becomes fully illuminated. This full moon is known as the Pink Moon, a name inspired by the pink spring flowers that bloom during this time of year.
It is also traditionally called the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon, or Fish Moon.
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☿ April 3 – Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation
🕒 Best visible before sunrise
On this morning, Mercury reaches its greatest distance from the Sun in the sky. Because of this, the small planet becomes easier to spot than usual.
👉 Look low in the eastern sky just before sunrise to catch a glimpse of Mercury glowing near the horizon.
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🌠 April 22–23 – Lyrids Meteor Shower Peak
🕒 Late night to early morning
The Lyrids meteor shower reaches its peak during these nights. Under clear, dark skies, observers may see up to about 20 meteors per hour.
✨ Expect bright streaks of light and sometimes glowing trails that briefly linger in the sky.
🌌 The best viewing time is after midnight.
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🌕 May 1 – Full Flower Moon
🕒 17:24 UTC
The Flower Moon lights up the sky at the height of spring. Its name reflects the abundance of blooming flowers during this season.
It is also sometimes called the Corn Planting Moon or Milk Moon.
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🌠 May 6–7 – Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower Peak
🕒 Best viewed before dawn
The Eta Aquarids meteor shower can produce up to 60 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. These meteors are created by debris left behind by Halley’s Comet.
⚠️ A bright Moon may reduce visibility this year, but many of the brighter meteors should still be easy to see.
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🌕🔵 May 31 – Blue Moon
🕒 08:46 UTC
The month ends with a rare Blue Moon, which happens when two full moons occur within the same month.
👉 This is where the famous phrase “once in a blue moon” comes from.
✨ Viewing Tip: For the best experience, head to a location away from city lights and enjoy the Moon under darker skies.
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🌌 Don’t miss these amazing cosmic events. Step outside, look up, and enjoy the beauty of the night sky! 👀✨
