Witness the Final Supermoon of 2025: 'Cold Moon' to Shine Bright Tonight
December 4 will witness the last Supermoon of the year and it will be visible across North America.
Get ready for a spectacular celestial display as the last Supermoon of the year, known as the 'Cold Moon,' illuminates the night sky tonight. Derived from Native American culture, the 'Cold Moon' name signifies the full moon closest to the winter solstice, marking the beginning of the winter season.
The term Supermoon refers to the alignment of a full moon or new moon with the moon's closest point to Earth, known as lunar perigee. This phenomenon makes the moon appear larger and brighter in the sky. Although not an official term, Supermoon was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 to describe the occurrence of a full moon or new moon at or near its closest point to Earth, set at 90% of its closest point.
Tonight's Supermoon will be visible in North America from moonrise on December 4, reaching its peak at 6:14 PM ET. The best time to view the lunar spectacle is when the moon is near the horizon, showcasing its full majesty. Moonrise times are expected to be around 3:35 PM ET on the East Coast and 4:22 PM ET on the Pacific Coast.
To enhance your viewing experience, consider using binoculars or a telescope to observe the moon's unique surface features. Whether you're an avid stargazer or just looking to witness the beauty of the night sky, tonight's Supermoon is a spectacle not to be missed.
Key Viewing Times:
- East Coast: Moonrise at 3:35 PM ET
- Pacific Coast: Moonrise at 4:22 PM ET
- Peak Time: 6:14 PM ET
Tips:
- For the best viewing experience, look for the moon near the horizon.
- Use binoculars or a telescope to observe the moon's surface features.
- Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the night sky with family and friends.