Skywatchers across India are in for a spectacular treat as the last full moon of 2025, known as the Cold Moon, graces the night sky this week. This is not just any full moon; it is the year's final supermoon, appearing larger and brighter than usual.
Cold Moon 2025: Dates, Timings, and Significance
The celestial event begins with the moon rising on the evening of Wednesday, 3 December 2025. It will reach its peak illumination on Thursday, 4 December, at 4:44 AM IST (which corresponds to 6:14 p.m. ET on 3 December). For viewers in India, the moon will appear full from the evening of the 3rd through Friday, 6 December, offering multiple nights for observation.
This December moon is traditionally called the Cold Moon, a name derived from the harsh winter conditions in the Northern Hemisphere. It is also known by other cultural names like the Long Night Moon or Drift Clearing Moon. Its appearance often coincides with the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, adding to its seasonal importance.
Why is it a supermoon? This Cold Moon will be about 221,965 miles from Earth, which is slightly closer than an average full moon. This proximity, known as perigee, makes it appear about 7% larger and 15% brighter in the sky, creating the classic supermoon effect that enthusiasts cherish.
A Dual Celestial Event: Supermoon Meets Geminid Meteor Shower
Adding to the excitement, the supermoon's arrival aligns with the beginning of one of the year's most prolific meteor showers—the Geminids. The shower runs from 4 December to 17 December, with its peak activity expected on the night of 13-14 December.
Under ideal dark sky conditions, observers could witness up to 120 meteors per hour. The best viewing time typically starts around 9 p.m. local time, intensifying until about 2 a.m., and continuing into the early morning. Unlike most meteor showers born from comets, the Geminids originate from debris left by the asteroid 3200 Phaethon.
How to Watch the Cold Moon Supermoon from India
For the best experience viewing the December 2025 supermoon, find an open area with a clear view of the horizon, away from the glare of city lights. The moon will appear largest when it is low on the horizon. On the night of the 4th, look for it forming a triangle with the star clusters Pleiades and Aldebaran, and shining near the planet Jupiter and the constellation Orion.
While visible to the naked eye, a pair of simple binoculars can reveal sharper details on the lunar surface. If weather or location is an issue, astronomy enthusiasts can tune into free livestreams offered by the Virtual Telescope Project on 4 December and the Griffith Observatory on 5 December.
As this is the third and final supermoon of 2025, it marks a brilliant conclusion to the year's lunar highlights. Remember to check your local weather forecast for cloud cover and step outside to enjoy this magnificent fusion of the Cold Moon and the beginning of the Geminid meteor shower.
