This weekend, stargazers will be treated to the full Cold Moon, which marks the last full moon of 2024. The celestial event is set to peak on Saturday night, December 14, and the full moon will linger in the sky until it sets with the sunrise on December 15.
Rising in the Taurus constellation near the Bull’s horns and close to the Auriga constellation, the Cold Moon will also have the bright planet Jupiter nearby, adding to the spectacle. The full moon coincides with the Geminid meteor shower’s peak, known for its vibrant shooting stars. While the brightness of the moon might overshadow some meteors, determined skywatchers can still catch a glimpse of a few if they dress warmly and are patient.
The exact moment of the full moon occurs at 4:02 a.m. EST (0902 GMT) on December 15. Before this, on the night of December 13, the moon will appear nearly full at 97.9% illumination, making it a great time for moon enthusiasts to observe it. Following the full moon, it will remain over 90% illuminated for a couple of days, although it will rise slightly later each night.
In addition to Jupiter, viewers can also spot bright Venus shining as an evening star in the southwest, while Saturn will be visible in the Aquarius constellation and Mars will rise after the moon, appearing above the Gemini constellation.
The term “Cold Moon” originates from the typically frigid conditions of December nights. Other names for this full moon include the Oak Moon from Celtic traditions, the Snow Moon from Cherokee customs, and the Long Night Moon from the Mohican culture.
For those interested in capturing the beauty of the Cold Moon on camera, numerous resources are available for tips on lunar photography, as well as recommendations for the best cameras and lenses for astrophotography.
In summary, the December full Cold Moon offers a remarkable view this weekend, accompanying the Geminid meteor shower, and creates a magical experience for skywatchers welcoming the holiday season. With some preparation and a keen eye, this celestial event promises to be a delightful highlight of the month.