Stargazers around the world have a treat in store: the first full moon of April 2026, also known as the Pink Moon, will rise the night of April 1. Despite its name, it won't appear pink. Instead, it will shine in a bright golden-white light.
Though it promises a luminous presence in the sky, especially because late spring full moons often appear bolder and brighter than others.
When To Catch The Pink Moon
In the US, the Pink Moon will peak at 10:12 PM EDT on April 1, which corresponds to 02:11 UTC on April 2, 2026. In India, the Moon will reach peak fullness at 7:42 AM IST on April 2.
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Why It Is Called Pink Moon?
Despite what the name might suggest, the Pink Moon will not appear pink. This full Moon is named after the pink wildflowers Phlox, which bloom across North America during this time of year.
According to the BBC, full Moons are often given informal nicknames inspired by seasonal events or natural phenomena. Other examples include the Strawberry Moon and the Snow Moon.
The Pink Moon symbolises renewal, growth and fresh beginnings and is often linked to cultural celebrations and spiritual reflection.
So, while it is called the Pink Moon, it will appear no pinker than any other full Moon. Though it can sometimes take on an orange hue when it is near the horizon.
The Easter Moon
The Pink Moon also plays an important role in determining Easter Sunday. Known as the Paschal Full Moon, it is the first full Moon after the vernal equinox, which in 2026 occurred on March 20. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday following the full Moon. This year it falls on April 5, 2026.
Because of this connection, the Pink Moon is sometimes referred to as the Easter Moon or Paschal Moon as well.
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A Cosmic Coincidence: NASA's Artemis II Launch
The Pink Moon will coincide with the planned launch of NASA's Artemis II mission, which will carry astronauts on a journey around the Moon as part of preparations for future lunar explorations. This marks the first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972.
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