Skywatchers can anticipate a spectacular event this week as the Cold Supermoon rises in the east. This celestial phenomenon is set to occur on December 4, 2025, at 6:14 p.m. EST. It will be the year’s final full moon, climbing higher in the night sky than any other full moon throughout 2025.
2025 Cold Supermoon Details
The Cold Supermoon is notable for being the second-largest full moon of the year, following November’s Beaver Moon. A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. This phenomenon causes supermoons to appear approximately 10% larger than an average full moon.
Visibility and Timing
The Cold Supermoon will provide its most impressive appearance at moonrise as it emerges on the horizon. While it reaches fullness at dusk on December 4, it will also appear bright and full the following day. On December 5, it will rise about an hour after sunset, offering excellent viewing conditions for skywatchers. This illuminating event is perfect for those looking to use new binoculars or beginner telescopes.
Historical Significance and Native American Names
December’s full moon, often called the Cold Moon, has several historical names rooted in Native American traditions:
- Frost Exploding Trees Moon (Cree)
- Moon of the Popping Trees (Oglala)
- Moon When the Deer Shed Their Antlers (Dakota)
- Winter Maker Moon (Western Abenaki)
- Long Night Moon (Mohican)
These names reflect the seasonal changes and natural phenomena observed in December. The Cold Moon’s name is particularly significant due to its proximity to the winter solstice, which occurs on December 21, 2025.
Upcoming Lunar Events
The next full moon will be the Wolf Moon, which is scheduled for January 3, 2026. This will mark the fourth and final supermoon of 2025 and the first of 13 full moons for the new year, which will also include a Blue Moon in May 2026.
As the Cold Supermoon rises, it will offer a dazzling show that embodies the beauty of the night sky, making it a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike this holiday season.
