How to see the Worm Moon - the first full moon of Spring
It will light up the sky!
Meteorological spring has sprung, and Astronomical spring is very nearly upon us... Now as we're entering the next season, leaving behind the chilly nights and frosty cars, the third full moon of the year has arrived.
Known to many as the Worm Moon, it will be visible to people across the world on 3rd March, with UK viewers being able to see it as the sun sets in the evening. Find out more about the Worm Moon, where it got its name from and if there will be a lunar eclipse...
What is a Worm Moon?
A Worm Moon is the name given to the full moon in March, sometimes it is also called the Crow Comes Back Moon or the Sore Eyes Moon - referring to the light reflecting off the mountain snow.
Why is it called a Worm Moon?
Traditionally the full moon in March is called the Worm Moon in the Northern Hemisphere, because it's when the earthworms begin to appear in the earth as the ground warms up.
When is it visible in 2026?
A full moon means that the Moon is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, therefore here in the UK, we cannot see the full moon until after the Sun has set. That means, on Tuesday 3rd March, the Worm Moon is best observed at the following times, in the East.
- 17:42 in London
- 17:44 in Edinburgh
- 17:48 in Cardiff
- 17:50 in Belfast
Will there be a lunar eclipse?
For us in the UK there won't be a lunar eclipse. However, many stargazers in some parts of North America, South America, East Asia, and Australia, will be treated to the astronomical event which will see the Moon going a blood red colour.
Is there a difference between a Super Worm Moon and a Worm Moon?
Yes, there is a difference, although they are very similar. A Worm Moon is a full moon is March, however a Super Worm Moon is a full moon in March when the moon is at its closest to the Earth, so it is very large in the sky. On 3rd March we have a Worm Moon.
What are the full moon names?
Throughout the year there are many full moons, each with a different name, see the full list below.
- January: Wolf Moon
- February: Snow Moon
- March: Worm Moon
- April: Pink Moon
- May: Flower Moon
- June: Strawberry Moon
- July: Buck Moon
- August: Sturgeon Moon
- September: Full Corn Moon
- October: Hunter's Moon
- November: Beaver Moon
- December: Cold Moon
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