The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand reveals three phenomena of the "moon" that coincide with "important days" in 2026
FacebookNARIT, the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailandposted a message stating that three lunar phenomena coincide with important days in 2026. In 2026, there will be three astronomical events related to the moon that align with significant dates, as follows:
This Magha Puja Day will feature a "total lunar eclipse" occurring roughly from 15:44 to 21:23 (Thai time). However, in Thailand, the eclipse will be observable starting when the moon rises above the horizon, around 18:23 in the east, coinciding with the total eclipse phase. Thus, the full moon will appear reddish-brick colored from moonrise until about 19:02, lasting 39 minutes. Afterward, a partial lunar eclipse and penumbral eclipse will follow until the event ends, all visible to the naked eye across Thailand.
This Visakha Puja Day coincides with the full moon at its farthest point from Earth in the year, making the moon appear slightly smaller than usual. Additionally, it is the second full moon of the month, known as a "Blue Moon," which is rare and thus called a "Micro Blue Moon." The last Micro Blue Moon occurred on 31 October 2020, nearly six years ago.
This Christmas Eve aligns with the full moon at its closest point to Earth in the year, causing the moon to appear slightly larger than usual. It presents an excellent opportunity to photograph the moon illusion or compare the moon’s size with objects on the horizon, creating images of a giant moon. Since it falls on Christmas Eve, it promises plenty of fun photography ideas.
Notably, important Buddhist religious days such as Magha Puja, Visakha Puja, and Asalha Puja are set by the 15th lunar day or full moon according to the lunar calendar. Therefore, full moon-related phenomena like the moon’s closest and farthest positions and lunar eclipses often coincide with these important days.
However, Christmas Eve is an important Christian holiday based on the solar calendar and does not depend on the moon’s position. This year is special because it coincides with the closest full moon of the year. Since Thai people enjoy celebrating various festivals, celebrating Christmas under the moonlight sounds delightful.