Pakistan to witness first Supermoon of 2026 on January 3
Pakistan is set to witness the first Supermoon of 2026 in Pakistan on Saturday, January 3, when the full moon, commonly known as the “Wolf Moon,” will appear significantly brighter and larger in the night sky, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).
Astronomical experts said the phenomenon occurs when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth during its orbit, a position known as perigee. Due to this reduced distance, the moon appears up to 14 percent larger and nearly 30 percent brighter than a regular full moon, making it a visually striking event for skywatchers.
Suparco stated that the moon will rise across Pakistan at approximately 5:51pm on January 3, with illumination reaching nearly 99.8 percent. The Supermoon will remain clearly visible throughout the nights of January 3 and January 4, providing ample opportunity for observation.
During this event, the distance between Earth and the moon will narrow to around 362,312 kilometres, resulting in the moon appearing approximately 6 to 7 percent larger than an average full moon. Scientists noted that this Supermoon marks the conclusion of a sequence of Supermoons that began in October 2025.
Experts further explained that Supermoons usually occur in clusters of three to four events in a row. Following the January 3 occurrence, the next Supermoon will take place in November 2026 and will be the second and final Supermoon of the year, as no third Supermoon is expected in 2026.
The Wolf Moon traditionally derives its name from historical references to wolves howling during winter months in the Northern Hemisphere. Astronomers encourage the public to observe the event with the naked eye, as no special equipment is required to enjoy the phenomenon.
