May is about to end and the 31 of this month one of the most particular astronomical events is expected: the blue moon Classified mini blue moon it is a phenomenon that occurs only on a particular occasion… when 2 full moons occur in the same month.
Why is it called the Blue Moon?
Let’s not be fooled by the name: despite the fact that it is very suggestive no sky will be dyed blue. The expression comes from an English saying “once in a blue moon“which is used for explain something rare and in this case it is used to identify the rarity of a second full moon in the same month. In fact, on May 1 there was the Moon flower and now the month ends with this appointment.
This time, however, we are not talking about a classic Blue Moon but a “mini” version. The reason? The satellite is much further from Earth, more than 405,000 kilometers away instead of the usual 384,000 or so.
When and where to admire it in Italy
The natural spectacle, inserted the most expected dates for the Full moon in 2026it’s a wonder in different parts of Italy, but it’s important to remember that you need to get away from light pollution to enjoy it to the maximum and hope for good weather.
U mini blue moon can you admire in Italy on the night of May 31 but it will already be visible from the evening of May 30 e until June 1. From sunset onwards, it will be possible to observe in several points. The moment of the full moon is officially at 10.45 in the morning, but since it is daytime, you have to wait until the evening to admire it. the apparent disk it will be between 6 and 10% smaller of a typical full moon. Almost imperceptible to the naked eye, but visible compared to a supermoon.
What is so special? Of course there is conjunction with Antares: the Moon will shine close to the brightest star Scorpius, and in some areas of South America and Antarctica it will cover it for a few minutes.
The good news is that can be seen throughout Italy looking east after sunset but it is definitely more suggestive in poorly lit places. Among the excellent observation points are the surrounding mountains Sienathe view of the sea of Polignano or of deeror the silent alleys of the villages of City of Bagnoregio. The alpine views around Courmayeur are also recommended.
Even small towns surrounded by nature, such as Castelmezzano or Erice, offer perfect atmospheres to see the moon rise towards the east after sunset, away from the light pollution of big cities.
For those who want an indelible memory, it is also possible to do it with a smartphone: position still and then shoot if the camera has a good definition at night. Alternatively, cameras with manual focus are recommended.
And the next blue moons? They will be those of the May 20, 2027 and of December 31, 2028… so it is better not to miss the opportunity because it will be a long time before we can witness this rarity again.