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February is about to hand the night sky its coldest, brightest calling card. The full Snow Moon arrives this Sunday, February 1, lighting up winter evenings just as much of the country is already blanketed in snow. Whether you’re standing in a frozen park, a snowy backyard or a surprisingly mild coastal city, here’s how to catch it at its best:
What is the Snow Moon?
February’s full moon has long been known as the Snow Moon, a name popularized by 18th-century writers because of the month’s reputation for heavy snowfall in North America.
Does February actually bring the most snow everywhere? Not quite. January often wins that title in many regions. But February still packs the biggest punch when it comes to major winter storms, especially in the Midwest and Northeast, where some of the country’s heaviest snow events tend to land. (This year, the name feels especially on-brand, though, as nearly half of the U.S. has snow on the ground heading into the full moon.)
When can I see the Snow Moon?
The moon officially reaches full at 5:09 pm Eastern time on Sunday, February 1. In much of the country, moonrise occurs right around sunset, when the show is at its most dramatic.
That first lift above the eastern horizon is prime viewing thanks to the “moon illusion,” a visual trick that makes the moon look oversized and slightly surreal as it hovers low in the sky. It’s brief, but it’s the moment you want.
If you miss Sunday night, the moon will still look very full on Monday, too.
Where can I get the best view?
Clear skies are the real gatekeeper here and luckily, cold winter air can be your friend, as cold, dry conditions often mean sharper visibility compared to hazy summer nights. Find an open view facing east: a hilltop, beach, open field or rooftop beats a canyon of tall buildings.
Snow on the ground can even amplify the vibe, reflecting moonlight and making the landscape glow.
Do you need special gear?
Nope. Your eyes are enough. Binoculars or a small telescope will reveal craters and darker lunar plains, but the Snow Moon is very much a naked-eye event. Just bundle up and give yourself a few minutes to let your eyes adjust.
One last sky bonus
The day after the Snow Moon, the moon will briefly pass in front of Regulus, one of the brightest stars in the night sky, a rare alignment visible from parts of North America. It’s subtle, but for skywatchers, it’s a neat extra reason to keep looking up.
If clouds ruin your plans, don’t worry: March will bring the Worm Moon—and a total lunar eclipse.