- The Cold Moon 2025 is the final supermoon and full moon of the year, occurring in December
- It will be about 221,965 miles from Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual full moons
- In India, the best viewing time is just after moonrise on December 4, with peak brightness at 4:44 a.m.
Cold Moon 2025: The final full moon of 2025, known as the 'Cold Moon' will be the year's last supermoon, offering skywatchers one final chance to catch a bright, oversized lunar show. Traditionally called the 'Cold Moon' due to the arrival of harsh winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it's also known in some cultures as the Long Night Moon or the Drift Clearing Moon. As a supermoon, it will be slightly closer to Earth than usual, about 221,965 miles away, making it look bigger and brighter than typical full moons.
As per BBC, the next full Moon, on 3 January 2026 is the Wolf Moon and will be yet another supermoon.
Cold Moon 2025: Timings in India
The most visually impressive time to see the supermoon is during moonrise shortly after sunset in your local time zone, when it is low on the eastern horizon. In India, the best time to watch the supermoon is just after moonrise on December 4, when the Moon appears largest and most dramatic due to the "moon illusion". The peak brightness of the Cold Supermoon will be at 4:44 a.m. on December 5 in India.
- Moonrise: around 5:23 p.m. on December 4 (varies by location)
- Peak Illumination: 4:44 a.m. on December 5
- Best Viewing Window: from sunset on December 4 to sunrise on December 5
Viral pics of Cold Moon 2025
As the final lunar event of 2025, skywatchers haven't missed the chance to capture the beauty of the Cold moon. Stunning photos of the final supermoon of the year are now going viral on social media, showing the moon glowing large and luminous against cityscapes, snowy landscapes, and clear night skies. From dramatic skyline shots to serene countryside views, users across platforms are sharing their best glimpses of the celestial event.
See some pictures here:
Cold Moon 2025: How to View It
No special equipment is needed to enjoy the spectacle, as the supermoon is bright and large enough to be appreciated with the naked eye.
- Find an open area: Choose a location with a clear view of the horizon and minimal light pollution, such as an open field, rooftop, or park.
- Let your eyes adjust: Give your eyes a few minutes to adjust to the darkness for the best detail.
- Use binoculars or a telescope (optional): While not necessary, binoculars can help you spot details on the lunar surface, like craters and ancient lava plains (maria).
- Virtual viewing: If skies are cloudy, major observatories like the Virtual Telescope Project often offer free livestreams of the event.
What Makes It a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the Moon being at or near its perigee - the closest point in its elliptical orbit to Earth. This proximity makes the Moon appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than the year's dimmest full moon (which occurs at its farthest point, or apogee).
