The sky is about to put on a breathtaking display, and you won't want to miss this celestial event! The last full moon of 2025, also known as the 'Cold Supermoon,' is set to grace our skies on December 5th, and it promises to be a sight to behold. But why is this moon so special? And how can you ensure you witness this lunar spectacle?
This month's full moon has a few intriguing names. It's called the 'Cold Moon' due to the chilly temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere during this period. But it's also known as the 'Moon Before Yule,' marking the final full moon before the festive season. What's more, this moon will be a 'supermoon,' occurring when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its monthly orbit, known as perigee. This proximity makes the moon appear up to 30% brighter and 14% larger than the smallest full moon of the year, creating a truly magnificent sight.
But here's where it gets convenient! If your view is obstructed by clouds or city skyscrapers, you don't have to miss out. Thanks to modern technology, you can catch the entire lunar show from the warmth of your home. The Virtual Telescope Project and Los Angeles' Griffith Observatory are offering free livestreams of the event, allowing you to witness the Cold Supermoon in all its glory.
The Virtual Telescope Project's livestream will begin at 3 p.m. EST (2000 GMT) on December 4th, providing telescopic views of the full Cold Moon from Manciano, Italy. Gianluca Masi, the project's host, promises to showcase stunning images of the moon, including some with the moon shining above Rome's iconic monuments. Meanwhile, the Griffith Observatory's livestream starts at 8:27 p.m. EST on December 5th (0127 GMT on Dec. 6), capturing the moon's rise above the eastern horizon at sunset.
For those inspired to delve deeper into the wonders of the night sky, we've got you covered. Check out our comprehensive guides to the best binoculars and telescopes available in 2025, as well as our recommendations for cameras and lenses to capture your own celestial memories.
And this is the part most people miss: You can be a part of this astronomical community! If you're an astrophotography enthusiast, consider sharing your lunar captures with Space.com's readers. Your photos could inspire others to look up and appreciate the beauty of the cosmos.
So, mark your calendars for this rare and captivating event. Will you be watching the Cold Supermoon rise? What equipment will you use to capture this celestial wonder? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
