The final supermoon of 2025 is set to light up the night sky in early December, marking the last of a trilogy of supermoons that occurred in the latter half of the year, with previous events in October and November. These celestial happenings occur when the moon approaches Earth during its orbit, appearing as much as 14% larger and 30% brighter than its faintest counterpart throughout the year, according to NASA.
This week’s supermoon visibility begins on Wednesday night, but will peak shortly after sunset on Thursday at 6:15 p.m. EST, based on predictions from the Old Farmer’s Almanac. Known as the Cold Moon, this particular full moon takes its name from the frigid temperatures typical for December, a designation used by the Mohawk tribe.
Despite the chilly weather, which may hinder viewing in some areas, meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser from Weather.com indicates that regions ranging from the Southwest to the Northeast will have the best opportunity to enjoy a clear view of the supermoon. However, those in the Northwest, Northern Plains, and Southeast might encounter thick cloud cover, potentially obscuring the celestial event. It’s important to dress warmly as many parts of the country are expected to see temperatures drop below 40 degrees.
For those fortunate enough to catch the supermoon under clear skies, it’s an excellent opportunity for photography. For tips on how to capture stunning night sky images using a smartphone, readers can refer to guides available online. Additionally, enthusiasts are encouraged to share their supermoon photos in the comments or send them to news outlets for potential inclusion in upcoming newsletters.
For anyone who misses this month’s phenomenon, there will be another chance to witness a supermoon in January, along with two more super full moons scheduled for November and December of 2026. This cycle of supermoons offers numerous opportunities to marvel at the beauty of the night sky, providing hope and excitement for stargazers in the months to come.