Pakistan is set to witness the first supermoon of 2026, traditionally known as the Wolf Moon, on the nights of January 3 and 4, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). The rare celestial event will make the full moon appear noticeably larger and brighter than usual, offering a stunning sight for skywatchers across the country.

SUPARCO stated that the supermoon will rise at 5:51 pm (PKT) on January 3, with lunar illumination reaching 99.8 percent. Due to the Moon’s close proximity to Earth, it will appear 6 to 7 percent larger and up to 10 percent brighter than a typical full moon.

Astronomers explained that this supermoon is the final event in a supermoon cycle that began in October 2025. During this phenomenon, the Earth–Moon distance will be approximately 362,000 kilometers, significantly closer than average, enhancing the Moon’s apparent size and brightness.

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The Wolf Moon is best observed shortly after moonrise, when it appears near the horizon and its brightness is more pronounced. Experts noted that supermoons occur when the Moon reaches its perigee, the closest point in its elliptical orbit around Earth, making it appear larger than a standard full moon.

Adding to the excitement for astronomy enthusiasts, the Quadrantid meteor shower is also expected to peak around the same period, making early January especially rewarding for night-sky observers.

SUPARCO further confirmed that this marks the last supermoon in the current sequence, while the next supermoon cycle will begin in November 2026. In 2025, Pakistan experienced three supermoons, observed in October, November, and December.

With clear skies permitting, citizens across Pakistan are encouraged to look up and enjoy this rare and visually striking astronomical event, which combines science, tradition, and natural beauty.