First Wolf Super Moon of 2026 & its impact: Here’s why Libra may enter leadership and Gemini is pushed to fix finances

The first full Moon of 2026, known as the Wolf Supermoon, will appear on January 3, 2026, at 10:03 GMT. January’s full Moon is traditionally called the Wolf Moon, a name linked to the howling of wolves often heard during cold winter nights. This year, it also qualifies as a supermoon, meaning it will appear larger and brighter than an average full Moon.

This full Moon marks the beginning of the lunar calendar for 2026 and arrives during a period filled with notable astronomical and astrological developments. From NASA’s explanation of what makes a supermoon to its position in an ongoing lunar sequence, the January Wolf Supermoon holds both scientific and symbolic importance.

The Wolf Moon is the traditional name given to January’s full Moon. In 2026, it gains added attention because it meets the conditions of a supermoon.

According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when a full Moon aligns closely with the Moon’s perigee, the point in its elliptical orbit where it is nearest to Earth. While “supermoon” is not an official astronomical term, NASA notes that it is commonly used to describe a full Moon that comes within at least 90 per cent of its closest distance to Earth.

During its orbit, the Moon reaches perigee at around 363,300 kilometres from Earth and apogee, its farthest point, at about 405,500 kilometres. This cycle happens roughly every 27 days. When a full Moon coincides with perigee, it appears visibly larger and brighter in the sky.

NASA also states that supermoons usually occur three to four times a year and often appear in consecutive sequences.

What sets the first super Wolf Moon of 2026 apart is its timing. This supermoon coincides with Earth’s perihelion, the point at which Earth is closest to the Sun in its annual orbit. While the Moon’s distance affects its apparent size, perihelion does not influence the Moon itself, but the overlap of these two events makes the timing notable.

Adding to the broader skywatching interest, Jupiter will reach opposition about a week after the Wolf Moon, according to a Forbes report. At opposition, Jupiter rises at sunset and sets at sunrise, making it brightest in the sky for the entire year.

This Wolf Moon also closes a longer supermoon sequence that began in October 2025, which included the Harvest Moon in October, the Beaver Moon in November, and the Cold Moon in December.

Following the Wolf Supermoon, the next full Moon will be the Snow Moon, which rises on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This will be the second full Moon of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, continuing the seasonal lunar cycle.

Astrologically, the first full Moon of the year rises in Cancer, influencing the period from December 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026. This lunation highlights themes of reflection, emotional grounding, and reconnecting with goals that may have been set aside.

The Cancer Full Moon emphasizes the idea of home as a place of emotional strength and renewal. While Capricorn season encourages ambition and forward movement, this Moon reminds individuals to slow down, focus on meaningful work, and prioritise self-care. It is also seen as a time to resolve past issues, strengthen collaborations, and begin a new chapter.

For Taurus, this phase may bring stronger social connections and romantic possibilities, especially through friendships.

Gemini is encouraged to revisit financial planning, assess material progress, and maintain practical habits as Jupiter continues to influence finances.

Cancer individuals are prompted to focus on personal motivation, skill-building, and long-term goals, with Mercury in Capricorn supporting careful planning.

Leo experiences a period of reflection tied to dreams and recognition, with the Moon setting the tone for Jupiter’s upcoming transit later in the year.

Virgo sees growth through friendships, optimism, and restructuring personal confidence while letting go of unhelpful connections.

For Libra, leadership themes emerge as the Moon and Jupiter meet at the top of the chart, encouraging confidence after past doubts.

Scorpio benefits from clarity, creativity, and completion of projects, especially in academic or professional areas.

Aquarius is guided to restructure routines, improve teamwork, and develop emotional intelligence.

Pisces experiences a heart-opening phase, with renewed focus on joy, rest, and reconnecting with passion projects as Saturn’s upcoming move into Aries approaches.

The first super Wolf Moon of 2026 is not just the year’s opening full Moon but a moment that blends astronomy, seasonal cycles, and personal reflection, marking both an ending and a beginning in the lunar calendar.