Louisville, Kentucky – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare and eye-catching night-sky event across Kentucky as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, offering the last chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. With clear winter air and broad horizons across much of the state, viewing conditions could be especially favorable.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 5 a.m. EST, but the most striking view arrives later that day. Across central Kentucky, including Louisville, the moon will rise in the east shortly after sunset Saturday evening. That timing places moonrise during early twilight, when the fading daylight enhances the moon’s size, brightness, and color near the horizon.
This full moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs near perigee, the moon’s closest point to Earth. During this event, the moon can appear up to 14 percent larger and about 30 percent brighter than an average full moon. Observers in Lexington, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, Owensboro, and northern Kentucky should see the moon climb steadily through the evening sky, remaining visible well into the night.
The Wolf Moon takes its name from winter folklore associated with the howling of wolves during the coldest weeks of the year. January’s full moon also hangs higher across the sky than any other full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, giving Kentucky one of the longest viewing windows compared to later months.
For the best experience, skywatchers are encouraged to face east at moonrise from an open field, hilltop, park, or farmland with a clear horizon. While the moon will appear full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the most dramatic contrast and photo opportunities. Clear skies will be key. After this weekend, another supermoon will not return until late 2026, making this a standout way to begin the New Year across Kentucky.
