December 2, 2025 | 05:03 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - As the long, dark nights welcome winter, the sky will stage its final lunar spectacle of the year when the Cold Moon ascends on Thursday, December 4. Gliding into near-perigee, this luminous giant will appear noticeably larger and brighter, casting a frosted radiance over the wintry dim.
For many sky enthusiasts, the full moon in December marks the opening of one of the season’s most anticipated stargazing windows. To ensure you experience this celestial event at its finest, here is a comprehensive guide, drawn from multiple reputable sources, to the full moon of December 2025.
The Full Moon in December Rounds Out 2025’s Supermoon Shows
The Cold Moon will conclude 2025’s lunar cycle as the twelfth and final full moon in a year defined by notable astronomical activity. Over the course of these monthly phases, observers witnessed three supermoons and two total lunar eclipses, making 2025 an unusually eventful year in the night sky.
The full moon in December, also called the Long Night Moon, meets NASA’s benchmark for a supermoon, reaching at least 90 percent of its closest distance to Earth and appearing brighter than usual. It follows the sequence set by October’s Harvest Moon and November’s Beaver Moon, bringing the lunar year to a bright close. The next full moon, January’s Wolf Moon, will arrive as the first full moon of 2026 and the fourth consecutive supermoon.
When Can You See the Full Moon in December?
The Cold Moon will reach full phase at 8:20 a.m. EST on Thursday, December 4, though stargazers can enjoy its luminous presence the night before and after. Observers should note that the moon often appears largest near the horizon, a captivating effect known as the “Moon Illusion.”
In New York, moonrise coincides with a dusky sky around 3:54 p.m. EST, while in Los Angeles, the phenomenon occurs at approximately 4:22 p.m. PST. For North American viewers, the most striking sight will be at moonrise during dusk on Friday, December 5, when the moon ascends shortly after sunset on the eastern horizon.
Marking the close of Moonfest ’25, this final supermoon of the year follows two earlier supermoons, capping a month brimming with celestial spectacles. While slightly less imposing than November’s record-breaking supermoon, the Cold Moon promises an impressive display for dedicated skywatchers.
How to See the Cold Moon in the U.S.?
The best time to view the Cold Moon is in the evening under dark, unobstructed skies. Seek out locations far from city lights, such as an elevated hill, an open field, or an east-facing coastline will offer an optimal vantage point.
No special equipment is required to admire its full brilliance, though binoculars or a telescope can reveal intricate lunar details. Dress warmly for the winter chill, and consider bringing a hot drink or snacks if you plan to linger.
Editor’s Choice: Don't Miss the Last Meteor Showers of 2025: When and Where to See Them
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Golden Supermoon to Light Up the Sky Tonight
26 hari lalu
As the supermoon occurs tonight, the moon is still in the process of approaching its closest distance from Earth. The closest point will only happen tomorrow.
Full Moon on 5th November 2025 Will Be Biggest Since 2019
27 hari lalu
Get ready to look up! The Full Moon or Beaver Moon will dominate the night sky on November 5, shining as 2025's biggest and brightest Supermoon.
Singapore's Full Moon November Promises Nights of Supermoon Brilliance and Shooting Stars
27 hari lalu
Singapore is set to welcome a month of bright celestial phenomena, with the promise of the largest and most captivating full moon in November 2025.
Three Meteor Showers, Planetary Alignment Will Grace November Skies
27 hari lalu
Three major meteor showers are among the astronomical phenomena that can be witnessed in the night sky throughout November 2025.
Australia's Brightest Full Moon in November 2025: Everything You Need to Know
27 hari lalu
Australia is set for the year's brightest full moon, the "Beaver Moon," visible from early evening on November 5. Here's everything you need to know.
Harvest Supermoon to Illuminate the Night Sky
56 hari lalu
The Supermoon occurs when the Moon reaches its perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than a standard full moon.
Buck Moon Glows Tonight, Marking July's Full Moon Event
10 Juli 2025
The phenomenon of the Buck Moon in the middle of this year can be observed in the U.S., India, and several European countries.
Strawberry Moon: June's Lowest Full Moon Since 2006 Makes Appearance
11 Juni 2025
The June full moon, also known as the Strawberry Moon, will appear as the lowest full moon since 2006.
BMKG Warns of Potential Coastal Flooding until April 4, 2025
16 Maret 2025
BMKG declares that the potential for coastal flooding is due to the phenomenon of the full moon and Super New Moon.
Full Moon in November 2024: Here is the Date of This Year's Last Supermoon
14 November 2024
Astrophiles will welcome the peak illumination of the Beaver Moon this mid-November. Here's the date of the full moon in November 2024.
:strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kly-media-production/medias/5243277/original/092151900_1749100247-front-view-cute-little-boy-listening-music.jpg)
