Glowing at 94%: When to See the Next Full Moon in January 2026
The next full moon in January 2026 is arriving on Jan. 3. Tonight's moon is already at 94% illumination. Learn about the Waxing Gibbous phase and the 29.5-day cycle according to NASA.
94% of the moon's face is illuminated tonight. As we step into Jan. 1, 2026, the sky offers a brilliant preview of the first major lunar event of the year. According to The Sky Live, the current phase is Waxing Gibbous, meaning we're just a few days away from a complete lunar disk.
The Next Full Moon in January 2026 Countdown
If you're waiting for the first Full Moon of the new year, mark your calendar for Jan. 3. This comes exactly 30 days after the previous full moon on Dec. 4. The moon has been gaining light steadily, providing a bright natural spectacle for anyone with a clear view of the horizon.
Understanding the 29.5-Day Lunar Cycle
Data from NASA shows that it takes roughly 29.5 days for the Moon to complete its cycle. While the same side always faces Earth, the amount of sunlight we see changes as it orbits. We're currently moving through the final stretch of the waxing stages, where more than half of the moon is lit but hasn't yet reached its peak.
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