When to View This Week's Spectacular Cold Supermoon in December

The last full moon of 2025 will rise on Thursday, December 4, reaching its brightest point at 6:14 p.m. EST. This months moon is a supermoon, following a high winter trajectory that allows it to remain visible longer than typical full moons. No telescope is necessaryin fact, its better to observe it with the naked eye, as supermoons make lunar surface details harder to see due to the intense brightness.

Skywatchers have a perfect reason to look upward this week: Decembers Cold Supermoon promises one of the most striking lunar displays of the season. Make sure to mark Thursday night for the most impressive viewing of the final full moon of the year.

What Makes a Supermoon Special?

Astronomer Dr. Mark Gallaway explains that the Moons orbit around Earth is elliptical rather than circular. Roughly every 27.3 days, the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth, called perigee, at about 356,400 kilometers (221,500 miles)closer than the average distance of 384,400 kilometers (238,855 miles). When a full moon coincides with perigee, it becomes a supermoon, appearing about 7% larger and 30% brighter than a standard full moon. Though the size difference is subtle, the brightness makes it visually remarkable.

Timing and Visibility

The Cold Supermoon will peak on Thursday, December 4, at 6:14 p.m. EST. Observers in the eastern U.S. should see it above the horizon at that time, while those in the western half will need to wait for moonrise. The moon generally appears full for three nights, including the nights immediately before and after the peak, giving everyone a chance to enjoy it.

Stargazers can also spot the moon near the Pleiades star cluster, with the red supergiant Aldebaran just below it and the bright red Betelgeuse to the left on Orions shoulder.

The Cold Moon Explained

Each full moon has a traditional name. Decembers full moon is called the Cold Moon due to its alignment with some of the years chilliest nights. In 2025, this moon is part of a rare streak of three consecutive supermoons: Octobers Harvest Moon, Novembers Hunters Moon, and Decembers Cold Moon. This makes the years final full moon especially noteworthy.

Observation Tips

Experts recommend using no instruments to view the Cold Supermoon. Telescopes are actually counterproductive during a full moon because the surface appears evenly bright, washing out details that are revealed only in shadows. Dress warmly if observing outdoors, as clear winter nights can quickly lead to heat loss.

Astrological Significance

Astrologer Sharan Sammi describes the Cold Supermoon as a symbolic time for closing chapters and preparing for the energy shift into the new year. It amplifies emotional reflection, clarity, and release. Astrologer Jenna Ewing adds that planetary influences make this moon a moment to assess personal growth, let go of what no longer serves you, and move forward with authenticity heading into 2026.

Author: Logan Reeves