The first full moon of 2025, often referred to as the Wolf Moon, made its appearance over the weekend, with visibility extending through Wednesday morning. According to NASA, the full moon will experience its peak illumination at 5:27 p.m. ET on Monday.
The term “Wolf Moon” originates from Native American culture, which noted that this was the time of year when wolf packs could be heard howling at the edges of villages. This nomenclature has been preserved and popularized since the 1930s by the Maine Farmers’ Almanac, adding a cultural richness to the lunar calendar.
In addition to the spectacular full moon, this lunar cycle will feature the moon passing in front of Mars, which is expected to be at its closest and brightest on Wednesday. Stargazers will also be treated to the visibility of Venus and Jupiter on Monday, while Mercury becomes observable during dawn over the next week.
As the lunar events unfold, they offer a beautiful spectacle that connects us to nature and the rhythmic wonders of our solar system. Observing celestial events such as the Wolf Moon fosters a sense of awe and appreciation for the universe, inviting everyone to step outside and experience the night sky.