It is now possible to see the last full moon of the year: the Cold Moon.
December’s full moon, popularly known as the Cold Moon, will reach maximum brightness at 4:02 a.m. EST on Sunday, December 15 , although it will appear full for several days. EST on Sunday, December 15, although it will appear full for several days. The Old Farmer’s Almanac provides specific moonrise times for several U.S. postcodes.
Why is the December full moon called a Cold Moon?
From Old Farmer’s Almanac, it states that this full moon is called the Cold Moon because of the typically frigid temperatures associated with it during the month of December.
The moon is known by various other names, one of which is the Long Night Moon, a title rooted in Mohican heritage, as stated by the Farmer’s Almanac. This name reflects the occurrence of December’s full moon during one of the year’s longest nights.
According to the almanac, December’s moon is also known by several names, such as the Drift Clearing Moon, the Frost Exploding Trees Moon, the Moon of the Popping Trees, Hoar Frost Moon, Snow Moon, and Winter Maker Moon.
What is the duration of December’s full moon?
The moon will achieve its maximum brightness early on December 15, yet it will seem full for multiple days. As reported by NASA, approximately 95% of the moon’s near side will be lit by the sun on Friday, December 13. On December 14, this illumination will increase to 99%, reaching full illumination at 100% on December 15. Even on December 16, 98% of the moon will remain illuminated.
This month, NASA recommends watching for Jupiter, which will be positioned between the almost full moon and Aldebaran, the brightest star in the Taurus constellation, on December 14.
According to NASA, enjoying the sight of the Cold Moon won’t require binoculars or a telescope. Local weather forecasts provide specific details about the clarity of the night sky in various areas where individuals are watching for the moon.
The Wolf Moon, recognized as the first full moon of 2025, will occur on Monday, January 13.
