Full Breakdown
December's Cold Supermoon: What to Expect
11/10/2025, 11:58:58 PM
Key Details of the December Full Moon
The next full Moon, known as the Cold Supermoon, will occur on Thursday, December 4, 2025. It will reach peak illumination at 6:14 p.m. EST, with the Moon rising at 3:58 p.m. EST. Observers can view the Moon in its fullest form for a day before and after this peak due to a phenomenon called lunar libration. On the night of December 4, the best viewing time will be after 5 p.m. EST, with the Moon reaching its highest point in the southern sky shortly after midnight. It will set in the northwest around 7 a.m. EST the following morning.
Understanding Supermoons
A supermoon occurs when a full Moon coincides with the Moon's closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. During this event, the Moon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a micromoon, which occurs when the Moon is at its farthest point, or apogee. The December 4 supermoon will be the last of three consecutive supermoons in 2025, with distances of 224,600 miles in October, 221,817 miles in November, and 221,965 miles for December's event.
The Science Behind Supermoons
The term "supermoon" is not an official astronomical designation but is commonly used to describe a full Moon that occurs within 90% of its perigee. The Moon's orbit is elliptical, meaning its distance from Earth varies. This variability results in supermoons occurring three to four times a year, typically in consecutive months. The phenomenon of syzygy, where celestial bodies align, is also relevant, as it describes the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth during these events.
Impact of the Supermoon
Supermoons can influence natural phenomena on Earth, particularly tides. The closer proximity of the Moon during a supermoon can lead to higher than average tidal ranges. While the visual differences may be subtle, the gravitational effects are measurable.
Criticism & Opposition
Some astronomers argue that the term "supermoon" can be misleading, as the visual differences may not be significant to the average observer. They emphasize that the term lacks a formal definition and can lead to misconceptions about the Moon's appearance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A supermoon comes in two forms: a full supermoon and a new supermoon.” — NASA
- “When the Moon is at its closest point to Earth during a full Moon phase, that's a "supermoon".” — NASA
- “Supermoons only happen three to four times a year, and always appear consecutively.” — NASA
This December's Cold Supermoon presents an opportunity for both casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts to witness a celestial event that combines beauty with scientific significance.
