The moon will reach maximum brightness at 10.09pm when it is right below the horizon.
Caroline Barry and Ellie Gosley
18:56, 01 Feb 2026
The Snow Moon rises over Liverpool city centre this evening(Image: Liverpool Echo)
So far this year has brought some incredible skies including the bright colours of the Northern Lights and Wolf Moon in January. This month, February, will see a beautiful Snow Moon light up the sky.
It’s easy to see the moon as it will be visible until February 2 at 8.06pm so there are plenty of opportunities to view it. The moon will reach maximum brightness at 10.09pm when it is right below the horizon.
It will maintain its ‘full’ appearance when it emerges tonight and tomorrow. Although, during the sunset, the Snow Moon will seem extra large and golden. This due to an optical illusion caused by atmosphere refraction and visual perception, reports North Wales Live.
This is the last chance to see a full moon in winter. It is usually referred to as Storm Moon or Hungry Moon.(Image: PA)
This is the last chance to see a full moon in winter. It is usually referred to as Storm Moon or Hungry Moon.
The Snow Moon got it’s name from snowfall during February. It is traditionally associated with transformation, optimism and fresh starts.
Stepping outside at 4.13pm is the best time to see the moon although this may depend on what part of the country you are in.
Throughout the year, there are 12 full moons that have their own names and traditions. However, this year, there will be an extra moon in May making it 13 lunar cycles. This is known as a Blue Moon which is where the expression comes from as it is rare.
Throughout the year, there are 12 full moons that have their own names and traditions(Image: Getty Images)
The Met Office estimates that the weather in Norther Ireland tonight, Sunday, February 1, will be mostly dry for the rest of the night. There will be a few showers but the cloudy skies may make it difficult to see the Snow Moon.
The morning will be frost with minimum temperatures of -3 °C. Monday will bring a bright start but more cloud with a chance of rain.
Astronomy enthusiasts Sky and Earth highlight that this month’s full moon will be exceptionally striking as it will be positioned near the renowned Beehive Cluster, a magnificent open star cluster observable through binoculars. Directly beneath the moon, observers will spot Regulus, the dazzling “heart” of Leo.
The following full moon will not occur until 3rd March, making this the perfect opportunity to witness one whilst possible.