December Full Moon Rises as Years Most Dramatic Supermoon

Skywatchers looked up in awe on December 4th. They saw the last supermoon of the year. The so-called Cold Supermoon appeared larger and brighter in the night sky.

This event marks the final full moon of 2025. The moon reached its peak fullness at 6:14 p.m. EST. It offered a spectacular celestial display for observers across the globe.

Why December’s Full Moon Appeared So Large

The moon appeared larger because it was near its closest point to Earth. This proximity is called perigee. A full moon at perigee is known as a supermoon.

According to NASA, this was the third consecutive supermoon. It was also the second largest full moon of the entire year. Only November’s Beaver Moon was slightly bigger.

Supermoons can appear about 10% larger than an average full moon. They also shine roughly 30% brighter. The visual effect is most dramatic just after moonrise.

The Cultural Significance of the Cold Moon

The name “Cold Moon” is traditional for December’s full moon. It originates from the seasonal shift into winter. Indigenous cultures in North America had various descriptive names.

These include the Frost Exploding Trees Moon and the Long Night Moon. The names reflect the harsh, cold conditions of the season. They connect celestial events directly to life on Earth.

This full moon rose within the constellation Taurus. It climbed higher in the sky than any other full moon this year. This high path added to its impressive visibility.

The Cold Supermoon provided a brilliant send-off for 2025’s lunar calendar. Such events remind us of our place in the cosmos. They connect people across the world under a shared sky.

The Cold Supermoon offered a stunning finale to a year of celestial events, blending natural wonder with deep cultural history.

Thought you’d like to know

What exactly is a supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth. This makes the moon look slightly larger and brighter than a typical full moon. The term is popular in modern astronomy and media.

When is the next supermoon?

The next supermoon will occur in 2026. The precise dates depend on the lunar cycle and the moon’s orbit. Astronomers publish these dates well in advance for skywatchers.

Why is it called the Cold Moon?

The name “Cold Moon” is attributed to the Mohawk people. It references the frigid temperatures of December. Other cultures used names like Frost Exploding Trees Moon or Long Night Moon.

Could everyone see the Cold Supermoon?

Visibility depended on local weather conditions. Clear skies offered the best view. The moon was visible to anyone in the nighttime hemisphere of Earth.

How does a supermoon differ from a regular full moon?

The main difference is in apparent size and brightness. A supermoon can be about 10% larger and 30% brighter. The difference is noticeable but subtle to the casual observer.