As winter nights stretch longer, those situated in the Northern Hemisphere are invited to witness a cosmic spectacle: the last full moon of the year, shining impressively in the night sky. This celestial event is set to unfold over a remarkable span of more than 16 hours, beginning Saturday evening and transitioning into the early hours of Sunday. The mesmerizing glow of the full moon, often referred to as the “Cold Moon” or “Long Night Moon,” provides a captivating visual treat during the winter season when the nights are longer.
According to data compiled by The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this particular full moon will reach its peak illumination precisely at 4:02 a.m. ET on Sunday morning. However, it is essential to note that to the naked eye, the moon will appear rounded for approximately three days. This extended visibility enriches the experience for moon-gazers and enthusiasts looking to soak in the beauty of this astronomical phenomenon.
For observers in the Southern Hemisphere, the December full moon presents a different experience compared to its June counterpart. While the June full moon was notable for its longevity, the December version will appear less prominently in the sky, tracing a lower arc. Sara Russell, a research scientist and leader of the Planetary Materials Group at London’s Natural History Museum, remarks that for those situated in the Northern Hemisphere, the moon is expected to ascend higher into the sky than many might anticipate.
The mechanics of this event hinge on the intricate dance of the Earth, moon, and sun, all of which exist on roughly the same celestial plane. The full moon manifests when the Earth occupies the position between the moon and the sun as the moon orbits our planet. Russell elaborates that in December, when winter envelops the Northern Hemisphere, the sun follows a diminished trajectory across the sky while, conversely, the full moon takes on a longer and elevated path.
The term “Cold Moon” draws from the traditionally harsh weather that characterizes the Northern Hemisphere during this time of year. Its nomenclature is attributed to the Mohawk people, and historical references to various full moon names have been compiled by The Old Farmer’s Almanac, which reflects contributions from both Native American and Colonial American sources.
For optimal viewing of the Cold Moon, Russell recommends catching it at the moment it rises or as it begins to set. This positioning allows observers to experience a stunning vantage point as it graces the horizon. Bundling up in warm layers is advised for those battling colder temperatures, and clarity of sky conditions further enhances the experience, making for a breathtaking lunar observation.
Russell expresses a sense of gratitude towards Earth’s moon, highlighting its unique relationship with our planet. The moon, remarkably proportionate in size to Earth, serves as an extraordinary observational platform revealing the history of celestial impacts that both have endured over billions of years. Observers can gaze up at its cratered surface and reflect on the forces that shaped its and Earth’s evolution throughout a 4.5 billion-year timeline.
As people marvel at the moon, countless unanswered questions about this nearby celestial body come to the forefront. Mysteries surrounding the far side of the moon, theories addressing water-rich lunar poles, and the tantalizing possibilities of human habitats on the moon become fodder for curiosity and scientific exploration. Russell emphasizes the significance of engagement with these enigmas, urging the public to ponder the future of lunar exploration.
This year’s December full moon coincides with the winter solstice occurring just a week later. Marking the moment when the Northern Hemisphere experiences its longest night and the Southern Hemisphere its shortest day, the winter solstice reflects the natural rhythm of the Earth’s axial tilt. This astronomical event will take place at 4:21 a.m. ET on December 21, according to EarthSky.
Looking ahead, the subsequent full moon, known as the Wolf Moon, is scheduled for January 25, as identified by the Farmers’ Almanac. In addition, skywatchers can look forward to two notable meteor showers marking the end of the year; the Geminids will illuminate the night sky until December 21, followed by a peak in the Ursids meteor shower occurring on December 21-22, as chronicled by the American Meteor Society. These exciting cosmic events promise to offer sky enthusiasts a vibrant and memorable close to the year.