Short answer: Yes, there was a widely reported Blue Moon on May 31, 2026, the second full Moon in May 2026, which also coincided with near-micromoon conditions and attracted attention from multiple outlets.
Here’s a concise overview to help you stay informed.
Overview
- Event: May 31, 2026 Blue Moon (second full Moon in May 2026).
- Why it’s notable: Blue Moons occur roughly every few years when a calendar month contains two full Moons; in 2026, May hosts Flower Moon on May 1 and a second full Moon at the end of the month, earning the Blue Moon designation.[2][6]
- Timing: Peak illumination typically reported around continental times vary by region; widely cited peak times include around 4:45 AM to 8:45 UTC on May 31, depending on source and time zone.[4][6][2]
Visibility and viewing tips
- Best viewing windows: In many locations, the period after sunset on May 30–31 offers the best view, weather permitting; observers in clear skies could see it in the early morning hours around the peak.[3][6][7]
- Special notes: Some outlets described this Blue Moon as also being a micromoon (smaller apparent size) due to its distance in its orbit, while still qualifying as the second full Moon of the month.[7][4]
Locations and accessibility
- Global: The event was visible from many parts of the world, weather permitting; Indian Standard Time and other local times were provided to guide viewing windows for different regions.[1][3]
- In practice: Even without special equipment, a full Moon is typically easily visible with naked eye.
What to watch for in coverage
- Many articles highlighted the rarity of two full Moons in May in 2026 and noted additional lunar events later in the year, making 2026 a notable year for skywatchers.[6][2]
- Some sources emphasized the Moon’s brightness and its appearance around the micromoon phase, which can make it appear slightly smaller and dimmer than a typical full Moon.[3][7]
If you’d like, I can:
- Narrow down viewing times for Marseille (your location) based on local twilight and weather expectations.
- Create a quick viewing checklist (best times, safety tips for photography, and simple camera settings) tailored to your region.
- Provide a short, sourced one-page summary you can save or print for a viewing night.
Sources
Mark your calendars for 2026's Full Moons. The year features twelve Full Moons, each with a unique traditional name. Notably, May 2026 will host two Full Moons, with the second one on May 31st…
economictimes.comA rare Blue Moon will occur on May 31, 2026, marking the second full Moon of the month. Though it won’t appear blue, this event is a fascinating quirk of the lunar calendar that happens only once every few years.
www.moneycontrol.comA rare Blue Moon will occur on May 31, 2026, marking the second full Moon of the month. Though it won’t appear blue, this event is a fascinating quirk of the lunar calendar that happens only once every few years.
www.moneycontrol.comThe Blue Moon in 2026 occurs on May 31 at 08:45 GMT. Learn why it’s called a Blue Moon, why it’s also the year’s smallest Full Moon, and how to watch it best.
starwalk.spaceThe rare lunar event won't happen again until 2028, and it comes with a bonus for those who step outside to look up.
www.accuweather.comMark your calendars for 2026's Full Moons. The year features twelve Full Moons, each with a unique traditional name. Notably, May 2026 will host two Full Moons, with the second one on May 31st designated as a Blue Moon. This article provides the complete schedule, including times and special events like lunar eclipses.
economictimes.indiatimes.comMay 2026 will feature two full moons, with the second on May 31 marking a blue moon
www.newsbytesapp.comOne of 2026’s most anticipated celestial events will unfold on May 31 as a rare Blue Moon lights up the skies in a dazzling lunar display. This blue moon phenomenon is seen every rarely, so do not miss it.
www.moneycontrol.com