January's Wolf Moon and Quadrantids Meteor Shower Kick Off 2026

The first full moon of 2026, known as the Wolf Moon, will illuminate the sky this weekend, coinciding with the Quadrantids meteor shower. The moon will appear full from January 2 to 4, with peak illumination at 5:03 a.m. ET on January 3. However, its brightness may hinder visibility of the Quadrantids, which will peak between 4 and 7 p.m. ET on January 3, with the best viewing time from midnight to dawn on January 4. The Quadrantids meteor shower will remain active until January 16, and although viewing conditions may be challenging, spotting up to five meteors per hour is possible if looking northeast with the moon behind. This celestial event is significant as it precedes NASA's Artemis II mission, expected to launch in early February.

Key Details: • Wolf Moon will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET on January 3, 2026. • Quadrantids meteor shower peaks from 4 to 7 p.m. ET on January 3. • Best time to view Quadrantids is from midnight to dawn on January 4. • Quadrantids active until January 16; look northeast for best visibility. • Upcoming meteor showers include Lyrids on April 21-22 and Perseids on August 12-13.