The December Supermoon: A Celestial Finale to the Year
December brings a breathtaking celestial event – a supermoon, and this one is notably noteworthy. As a seasoned astronomer, I’m hear to guide you through everything you need to know about this dazzling display, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of this beautiful phenomenon.
What Makes a Supermoon “Super”?
Essentially, a supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in it’s orbit. The moon doesn’t orbit in a perfect circle; rather, it follows an elliptical path. This means its distance from us varies throughout the month.
* At its farthest point (apogee), it’s around 407,000 kilometers away.
* At its closest point (perigee),it’s about 380,000 kilometers away.
This December’s supermoon will be exceptionally close, reaching just 357,000 kilometers – making it the second-closest full moon of the year.
Why is This Supermoon Special?
Beyond being the third consecutive supermoon of 2025, several factors contribute to its meaning. You’ll be witnessing a particularly radiant and large full moon, a fitting end to the year’s lunar cycle. it’s also unique because it reaches full illumination just 12 hours after reaching perigee, maximizing its brilliance.
How Will It Look to You?
While the difference in size might be subtle – appearing up to 8% larger – the increased brightness is more noticeable. Expect it to be approximately 16% brighter than an average full moon. However, don’t expect a dramatically different view; the effect is often more appreciated with the right perspective.
The “Cold Moon” and Winter Solstice Connection
This December full moon is traditionally known as the “Cold Moon,” a nod to the chilly temperatures of the season. Interestingly, it coincides with the approach of the winter solstice on December 21st. As the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, the full moon appears at its highest.
However, it’s worth noting that the closest full moon to the solstice actually occurs in January. The first full moon of 2026, on January 3rd, will be the fourth in a consecutive series of supermoons, and even closer to the solstice.
Experiencing the Lunar illusion
You might here about the “lunar illusion,” where the moon appears larger when it’s near the horizon.Although NASA hasn’t fully explained this phenomenon,it’s particularly pronounced during supermoons.
To maximize this effect, consider these tips:
* Find an elevated Location: A hill, meadow, or any unobstructed view of the eastern horizon is ideal.
* Time it Right: Moonrise is generally the best time to witness the lunar illusion.
* Be Patient: Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for optimal viewing.
When to Look Up
The exact time of the full moon is scheduled for 6:14 pm ET on Thursday, December 4th. Remember, the moon may appear full the night before and after, but this is the precise moment of peak illumination.
Don’t Miss This Celestial Show
This December supermoon offers a beautiful prospect to connect with the night sky. With a little planning and clear weather, you can enjoy a truly memorable celestial experience. As a final thought, remember to share your photos and observations – the wonder of the universe is best enjoyed together.
Sources:
* EarthSky: https://earthsky.org/tonight/december-full-moon-mimics-the-june-sun/
* WIRED Italia (original article): [https://www.wired.it/article/superluna-fredda-come-vedere-ultima-grande-e-magnifica-luna-piena-dell-anno/](https://www.wired.it/article/superluna-fredda-come-vedere