Are you heading out this weekend to see the full Moon rise?
If you're planning on catching the full Moon, you'll probably already know it's being called a 'Blue Moon' or even a 'Blue Micromoon'.
You may not know, however, that three planets will be visible with the naked eye at the same time, just after sunset.
More stargazing advice
That means you can see three Solar System worlds with your own eyes in the west, then spin around in the opposite direction to catch the Blue Moon rising in the southeast.
An open spot with clear horizons to the east and west will be best to see the Blue Moon and the three planets.
The time to look is the period around dusk, all weekend.
The Blue Micromoon – what you need to know
- The full Moon rises in the southeast on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening (29th, 30th, 31st May) at dusk
- While Friday's Moon is technically not a full Moon, it's almost full, giving it the naked-eye effect of a full Moon
- This is the second full Moon in the month of May 2026 – the first having risen on 1st May – making it a Blue Moon
- The 31st May Moon is full at the same time as it's the furthest point from Earth in its orbit, making it technically appear smaller than usual (hence 'micromoon')
- However, the term 'micromoon' is technicality, and you're unlikely to notice it looking any small than usual
- 'Blue Moon', too, is simply a nickname. Don't expect the Moon to actually look blue!
- Nevertheless, a rising full Moon is a beautiful sight, regardless of what nickname(s) it's given
Observe Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and the Blue Moon in one night
- Jupiter is visible high in the west after sunset. To the naked eye, it will look like a bright 'star'
- Venus is close to Jupiter in the sky – see it slightly below and to Jupiter's right. It will be brighter and easier to spot than Jupiter
- Mercury is tricky to spot, but doable. You'll need a clear, flat view to see it right on the northwest horizon, immediately after sunset
- Only look for these planets once the Sun has set, as accidentally glimpsing a view of the setting Sun with your naked eye could damage your eyesight
- At the same time these planets are setting towards the west, the Blue Moon is rising in the southeast
- The Blue Moon will track across the southern sky, setting in the southwest around dawn
- These objects are best seen with the naked eye, in order to get the full effect of the four bodies visible in the sky at once
At a glance – key timings, directions and tips for each object
| Object | Direction | When | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Northwest | Immediately after sunset | Flat NW horizon needed |
| Venus | West-northwest | 30–45 mins after sunset | Visible even at twilight |
| Jupiter | West | 30–45 mins after sunset | Higher and to Venus's left |
| Blue Moon | Southeast, south, southwest | Dusk until dawn | Flat SW horizon recommended |
Share your full Moon and planet images with us by emailing contactus@skyatnightmagazine.com
