Full moon snow moon lights up February skies

The February full moon, widely known as the Snow Moon, has already passed its peak but continues to glow brightly in the night sky, offering skywatchers another chance to enjoy the lunar spectacle. According to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the moon reached its fullest point at 10.09pm UK time on Sunday, marking the second full moon of the year.

Even for those who missed the exact moment, there is little disappointment. Astronomers explain that the moon appears full for a few days around its peak, before gradually shifting into the Waning Gibbous phase. During this time, the illuminated portion slowly begins to shrink, though the change is subtle to the naked eye.

The name Snow Moon has deep historical roots. NASA notes that tribes in northeastern North America coined the term because February was typically the snowiest month of the year. Heavy snowfall often made travel difficult and hunting nearly impossible, shaping daily life around harsh winter conditions.

Over time, the same full moon has picked up other names reflecting similar realities. It has been called the Storm Moon due to frequent winter storms, and the Hunger Moon because food supplies were often low and hunting was particularly challenging during this period. These names were practical descriptions rather than poetic choices, closely tied to survival and seasonal patterns.

There are usually 12 full moons each year, though some years see 13. Each carries a traditional name, most of which originated from Native American communities. The lunar cycle played an essential role in timekeeping for these tribes, long before modern calendars became common. These names were later adopted by Colonial Americans and gradually found their place in popular culture.

Observing the full moon does not require any special equipment. It is easily visible with the naked eye, weather permitting. However, NASA says binoculars can reveal extra details such as craters and long mountain ridges across the lunar surface.

Using a telescope brings even more texture into view, though the moon can appear too large to see all at once. Observers can spot valleys, towering mountains and rilles, which are cracks formed by ancient lava flows. Together, they offer a reminder that the moon, while familiar, remains a dynamic and fascinating world.

As February moves on, the Snow Moon slowly fades from its full brilliance, but its presence lingers, quietly marking the rhythm of seasons that humans have followed for centuries.