A rare Blue Moon lit up the night sky over the Quad Cities on Saturday, marking the second full moon in May 2026. Despite the name, the moon did not appear blue — the term refers to the calendar rarity of two full moons in one month, which happens roughly every two to three years. The last such event visible in the region was in August 2023, and the next won’t occur until December 2028.

This particular Blue Moon was also a micromoon, meaning the moon was at a more distant point in its orbit, making it appear slightly smaller and dimmer than a typical full moon. Peak illumination occurred at 3:45 a.m. on Sunday, but the best viewing opportunity for local residents was Saturday evening shortly after moonrise at around 8:40 p.m., when the moon climbed above the eastern horizon.

Clear skies and low humidity across eastern Iowa and western Illinois provided ideal conditions for viewing. Recommended spots included Illiniwek and Loud Thunder Forest Preserves, Mississippi River overlooks, and even backyards with an unobstructed view east. The apparent size of the moon near the horizon is enhanced by the 'moon illusion,' a perceptual effect caused by comparing the moon to nearby objects like trees and buildings.