Overview: December’s Cold Moon grows bright as 2025’s final supermoon
The last supermoon of 2025 is set to illuminate skies on December 4, just one week after Thanksgiving. Known to stargazers as the Cold Moon, this full moon will appear larger and brighter than usual as it coincides with a perigee—the point in its orbit closest to Earth. For skywatchers, it’s an ideal opportunity to witness one of the year’s most striking celestial events from a backyard, a park, or a dark-sky location.
What makes a moon a “supermoon” and why this one stands out
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. When these two conditions align, the Moon can appear up to 14% larger and significantly brighter than a typical full moon. December 2025’s Cold Moon will bring a crisp, near-winter glow to the lunar surface, enhancing details like craters and maria through a modest telescope or even good binoculars. This combination of proximity and illumination is what makes the event feel extra dramatic, even to casual observers.
Why it’s called the Cold Moon
Traditional names for full Moons vary by culture and season. The “Cold Moon” designation reflects winter’s onset in the Northern Hemisphere, when temperatures drop and landscapes begin to take on a frosty crown. While the name evokes atmosphere, the practical takeaway for observers is simple: bundle up and prepare for a longer viewing session, as winter nights can be long and clear.
When and where to look for the final supermoon of 2025
On December 4, the Moon reaches full phase in most time zones, with peak brightness occurring a little before or after local midnight depending on your location. For best viewing, aim for skies free of light pollution, away from city centers, and watch low in the eastern to southeastern sky as the Moon rises. Because it’ll be near perigee, the Moon’s apparent disk will look noticeably larger for observers across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
Tips for viewing and capturing the moment
- Check local rise times: use reputable astronomy apps or almanacs to find when the Moon becomes visible above your horizon.
- Minimize glare: give your eyes time to adjust to darkness and consider using a light red filter if you’re using a telescope or camera with a viewfinder.
- Use a stable setup: a steady tripod and a remote shutter release help prevent blurring when photographing a near-full, bright moon.
- Experiment with exposure: try a few shots to capture the moon’s texture—craters and features pop with slightly shorter exposures to avoid blown-out highlights.
- Pair moon views with winter sky highlights: if weather allows, try spotting Orion or Taurus nearby to add context to your lunar observations.
Why this final supermoon matters for enthusiasts
Even for casual skywatchers, a supermoon offers a reminder of how dynamic our night sky is. The December 2025 Cold Moon provides a natural calendar marker—an accessible event that signals the end of a celestial year. It’s a chance to observe the interplay between the Moon’s orbit and our planet’s tilt, a reminder of why astronomy remains a popular hobby for families, students, and seasoned observers alike. And if you miss it due to weather or busy schedules, there will still be opportunities to track the Moon’s phases in the coming months as winter gives way to spring.
Bottom line: mark your calendar for December 4
The final supermoon of 2025, December’s Cold Moon, promises a bright, close-quarters lunar encounter that’s accessible to observers of all levels. With clear skies and a bit of patience, you’ll witness a Moon that looks larger and more luminous than usual—an elegant finale to a year of remarkable night skies.
