Indianapolis, Indiana – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare skywatching opportunity across Indiana as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, marking the final chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. With wide-open rural landscapes and winter-clear air, many parts of the Hoosier State could see a particularly striking moonrise.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 5:03 a.m. EST, but the most dramatic viewing comes later that day. In central Indiana, including Indianapolis, sunset occurs around 5:30 p.m., with moonrise following shortly after during early twilight. That timing places the moonrise in the prime blue-hour window, when the moon appears larger and more colorful near the eastern horizon.
This full moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs close to perigee, the moon’s nearest point to Earth. That alignment allows it to appear up to 14 percent larger and roughly 30 percent brighter than an average full moon. Viewers in Fort Wayne, South Bend, Lafayette, Terre Haute, and Evansville should see the moon rise Saturday evening and climb high across the night sky, remaining visible for hours.
The Wolf Moon takes its name from winter folklore tied to the howling of wolves during the coldest part of the year. January’s full moon also rides higher across the sky than any other full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, giving Indiana an extended viewing window compared to later months.
For the best view, skywatchers should face east at moonrise from an open field, park, farmland, or elevated overlook with a clear horizon. While the moon will appear full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the most dramatic contrast and photographic potential. Clear skies will be key. After this weekend, another supermoon won’t return until late 2026, making this a memorable way to begin the New Year across Indiana.
