Will Cloudy Weather Ruin Your View of the Snow Moon?

Stargazers in the UK have the opportunity to witness the last full Moon of meteorological winter this Sunday night and Monday morning. The Snow Moon, which is the name given to February's full Moon, will rise at 16:03 GMT in Edinburgh and 16:13 GMT in London, setting around 08:00 GMT on Monday. However, visibility may be hampered by cloudy weather, particularly in central and eastern England and Scotland, while regions in western England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and western Scotland might enjoy clearer skies.

Last updated: 05 March 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Snow Moon approaches, meteorological conditions across the UK are mixed. While some regions are likely to experience clouds and rain, others may have clearer skies offering a prime opportunity for moon observation. The Snow Moon is particularly significant as it marks the final full Moon before the arrival of spring, and traditions surrounding its viewing date back centuries.

Key takeaways

The Snow Moon rises on Sunday, 5 March 2023, and sets early Monday morning.
Cloudy conditions may obscure visibility in eastern and central parts of the UK.
Western regions may have clearer skies, increasing chances to observe the Moon.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline outlines key events related to the Snow Moon and the lunar cycle:

January 2023: The Wolf Moon is observed, marking the first full Moon of the year.
5 March 2023: The Snow Moon is expected to rise at 16:03 GMT in Edinburgh and 16:13 GMT in London.
31 May 2023: The next full Moon, known as the Blue Moon, will occur.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The current weather forecast indicates a mix of cloud and rain across many parts of the UK, which may affect visibility for stargazers hoping to catch a glimpse of the Snow Moon. However, clearer conditions are anticipated in the west, particularly in Northern Ireland and western Scotland.

What was already established

Full Moons occur when the Sun and Moon align on opposite sides of the Earth, illuminating the entire visible side of the Moon. February's full Moon, known as the Snow Moon, has historically been linked with heavy snowfall and has been referenced for centuries in tracking seasonal changes.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Visibility of the Snow Moon may influence local activities, particularly for those interested in astronomy or photography. Clear nights offer an opportunity for moonlit walks, while cloudy weather may discourage outdoor engagement.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses involving tourism, such as stargazing tours or photography workshops, the weather conditions can directly impact attendance and revenue for events planned around the full Moon.

Policy and regulation

While the Snow Moon does not directly impact any immediate policy, changes in weather patterns are often tracked by environmental agencies, which may lead to discussions about climate impacts on seasonal weather and astronomical events.

Numbers that matter

16:03 GMT: Time the Snow Moon rises in Edinburgh.
16:13 GMT: Time the Snow Moon rises in London.
08:00 GMT: Time the Snow Moon sets on Monday morning.
31 May 2023: Date of the next Blue Moon.
12: Average number of full Moons in a year, with an additional full Moon every 2.5 years.

Definitions and jargon buster

Syzygy: An astronomical alignment of three celestial bodies, typically the Sun, Earth, and Moon.
Micromoon: A full Moon that appears smaller than usual due to its distance from the Earth.
Supermoon: A full Moon that appears larger than usual, occurring when the Moon is at its closest approach to Earth.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Stargazers should monitor local weather forecasts to determine the best times for viewing the Snow Moon. Clear spells may vary by location, so checking hour-by-hour updates is advisable.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Looking ahead, the Blue Moon at the end of May presents another opportunity for moon observation. As spring approaches, evenings may become more conducive for stargazing.

Signals to watch

Weather forecasts for clear skies on the night of the Snow Moon.
Upcoming astronomical events, including the Blue Moon in May.
Local stargazing events or workshops that may be organised around these lunar events.

Practical guidance

Do

Check local weather conditions for optimal viewing times.
Use night mode on cameras to capture images of the Moon effectively.
Plan outdoor activities around the full Moon to take advantage of moonlight.

Don’t

Don’t forget to turn off your phone flash when photographing the Moon.
Don’t assume you’ll always see a full Moon; check local forecasts for cloud cover.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the night sky, even if the Moon is not fully visible.

Checklist

Have a camera ready with night mode activated.
Check the time of the Moon's rise and set in your location.
Monitor weather updates for clear skies.
Plan a location away from city lights for better visibility.
Prepare for potential rain or cloudy conditions with appropriate clothing.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Weather conditions are inherently unpredictable, and forecasts can change rapidly. Cloud cover may obscure the Snow Moon, particularly in eastern regions of the UK. It's important to remain flexible with plans and be prepared for varying visibility. Additionally, while the Snow Moon is a celebrated event, individual experiences may vary based on local conditions.

Bottom line

The Snow Moon on 5 March 2023 presents an exciting opportunity for stargazers across the UK to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. While weather conditions may pose challenges, those in the right locations can expect a stunning display. As we look forward to the Blue Moon later this year, now is a perfect time to engage with the celestial events that mark our calendar.

FAQs

What is the Snow Moon?

The Snow Moon is February's full Moon, named for the heavy snowfall often associated with this time of year in the northern hemisphere. It is a time for stargazers to observe the Moon in its full glory.

When is the next Blue Moon?

The next Blue Moon will occur on 31 May 2023, which is the second full Moon in that calendar month.

How can I photograph the Snow Moon?

To photograph the Snow Moon, turn off your phone's flash, activate night mode, and ensure you are in a location with minimal light pollution for the best results.