Pakistan will observe the first Supermoon of the year 2026 on Saturday, January 3, when the full moon is expected to appear unusually large and bright in the sky, according to astronomical experts.
According to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the Supermoon will occur on January 3 and is traditionally known as the “Wolf Moon.” The phenomenon will mark the end of a series of Supermoons that began in October 2025.
Experts explained that a Supermoon occurs when the moon approaches Earth closer than its average distance, making it appear larger and brighter than a normal full moon.
Because of this proximity, the moon can appear up to 14% larger and about 30% brighter compared to a normal full moon, the scientists added.
Suparco said that the Supermoon will rise in Pakistan at 5:51 pm on January 3, and that the moon’s illumination will reach 99.8% at that time. The Supermoon will remain visible during the nights of January 3 and 4, allowing observers an extended observing period.
During the event, the distance between the Earth and the Moon will be approximately 362,312 kilometers, the scientists said, adding that the Supermoon is expected to appear 6 to 7% larger compared to an average full moon.
Astronomers noted that Supermoons generally occur in sequences of three or four consecutive events, and the current series will conclude with the Supermoon on January 3.
Suparco said the next Supermoon will begin in November and will be classified as the second Supermoon of 2026, adding that there will not be a third Supermoon during the year.
