It will still be shining bright on Valentine’s Day.
This celestial event kicks off a month of remarkable astronomical occurrences, including close alignments of the moon with several planets.
Moon Meet Planets
February’s night skies will also feature Venus, Saturn, and Mars close-in to the moon.
- February 1: Venus aligns with the crescent moon.
- February 3: The crescent moon appears between Venus and Uranus in the southwestern sky. A telescope will be needed to spot Uranus and Neptune.
- February 6: The moon pairs with Jupiter.
- February 9: Mars aligns with the waxing gibbous moon.
This planetary parade enhances the Snow Moon’s grandeur, creating a dazzling display for those who brave the cold to catch a glimpse.
Why Is It Called the Snow Moon?
The Snow Moon earns its name from February’s often snowy weather.
Historically, Native American tribes referred to it as the storm moon or hunger moon, highlighting the harsh conditions and limited food supplies during this time of year.
