This weekend, the final full moon of 2024, known as the Cold Moon, will illuminate the night sky, coinciding beautifully with the onset of the holiday season. The full moon will rise overnight on Saturday, December 14, and will remain visible until it sets with the sunrise on Sunday, December 15. Positioned in the Taurus constellation, the moon will appear near the Bull’s horns, with the bright planet Jupiter nearby.
Adding to the spectacle, the full moon coincides with the peak of the Geminid meteor shower, which is expected to be most active on the night of December 13. While the brightness of the moon may obscure many meteors, observers may still catch glimpses of “shooting stars” with some patience and warm clothing.
The precise moment of the full moon will occur at 4:02 a.m. EST (0902 GMT) on December 15. However, stargazers can enjoy a nearly full moon as early as the night of December 13, when it will be 97.9% illuminated. For a couple of days following, the moon will remain over 90% illuminated, although it will rise slightly later each evening.
In addition to Jupiter, Venus will be visible in the southwestern sky as an evening star, setting a few hours after sunset. Saturn will be high in the Aquarius constellation for several hours after the moon rises, and Mars will appear a few hours later above the twins of Gemini.
The name “Cold Moon” reflects the long, chilly nights characteristic of December. This full moon has various names across cultures, including the Oak Moon, the Snow Moon in Cherokee traditions, and the Long Night Moon, attributed to the Mohican people.
For those interested in capturing the beauty of the December full moon, tips for photographing it can be found in guides tailored for astrophotography enthusiasts. With the right equipment, such as telephoto lenses and quality cameras, skywatchers can create stunning images of this celestial event.
This December, as the full moon brightens the night sky, it serves as a reminder of nature’s wonder during the festive season, encouraging us to step outside, gaze upward, and perhaps capture the beauty of the universe.
In summary, this weekend brings not only the full Cold Moon but also the chance to witness the Geminid meteor shower, making for an enchanting experience for skywatchers.