February’s full moon, often called the “Snow Moon,” recently captivated observers across the globe with its bright display. Rising on February 1st, the lunar spectacle appeared opposite the sun in Earth’s sky, fully illuminated and visible beneath the stars of Leo.
The timing coincided with the aftermath of a severe winter storm in parts of the U.S.—a fitting backdrop given the moon’s traditional name. It also shone down on NASA’s Artemis 2 rocket, currently stationed at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Visual Highlights from Around the World
Stunning photographs captured the Snow Moon’s beauty in diverse locations. Michael Heiman photographed the moon above the Italian Alps before sunset, while Mattia Ozbot captured its rise over snowy hills in Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy.
In California, Tayfun Coskun documented a passenger plane silhouetted against the moon’s hazy glow, and Greg Gage captured a detailed image over the Little Florida Mountains in New Mexico. Martin Bernetti’s shots from Panama City showcased the moon rising through clouds, even illuminating the skyline with its light.
Adding a unique perspective, Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo photographed the Snow Moon above NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) Artemis 2 rocket. Lorenzo Di Cola captured the moon rising over Venice’s Santa Maria della Salute Church, where atmospheric scattering gave it a yellowish hue. Dramatic views from Albania (Vlasov Sulaj) and Canada (Mert Alper Dervis) completed the global showcase.
What Comes Next: The Worm Moon and a Blood Moon Eclipse
The next full moon, the “Worm Moon,” will occur on March 3rd at 6:38 a.m. EST. This lunar phase will be accompanied by a total lunar eclipse, resulting in a striking “Blood Moon” as Earth’s shadow refracts sunlight onto the lunar surface, turning it a deep red. This phenomenon is expected to be visible worldwide, and enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare for observation.
The Snow Moon’s recent appearance serves as a reminder of the natural wonders that continue to inspire and awe, while the upcoming eclipse promises another spectacular celestial event for skywatchers to enjoy.
