Skywatchers across India are in for a spectacular treat as the year 2025 prepares to bow out with a brilliant celestial finale. The last supermoon of the year, known traditionally as the Cold Moon, will grace the night sky this week, offering a final chance to witness the lunar spectacle before the calendar turns.
Why Is It Called the Cold Moon?
The December full moon has been historically named the Cold Moon, a title deeply rooted in seasonal changes. This name is a direct reference to the sharp and noticeable drop in temperatures that characterizes this period across many regions, including parts of India. As documented in traditional almanacs, this is one of several monthly full-moon names that serve as cultural and seasonal markers, literally signifying the arrival of the cold season followed by the moon's glow.
The Science Behind the Supermoon Spectacle
This week's full moon is not just any full moon; it qualifies as a supermoon. According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when the moon reaches the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. When this orbital proximity coincides with a full moon, the lunar disc appears noticeably larger and brighter in our sky.
The visual difference is significant enough to be appreciated with the naked eye. At its closest approach, a supermoon can appear roughly 14% larger and 30% brighter compared to the faintest full moon of the year. Typically, three or four such events occur annually. The December Cold Moon marks the third consecutive supermoon, following similar events in October and November, wrapping up a remarkable triple lunar feature.
When and How to Watch in India
The peak illumination for the December supermoon is set for Thursday, 4 December 2025, at 6:14 pm Eastern Time (ET). For Indian observers, this translates to the early hours of Friday, 5 December, at 4:44 AM IST. The moon will be visible throughout the night, but the best time to grasp its impressive size is typically just after moonrise, when it sits near the horizon.
While a telescope or binoculars can enhance the view by revealing captivating surface details like craters and maria, they are not essential for enjoyment. The key to a great viewing experience lies more in ground conditions. Experts recommend finding a location with:
- Low light pollution (away from city glare).
- An open line of sight to the horizon.
- Clear, steady weather.
Ideal spots include open fields, terraces, rooftops, or beaches where artificial lighting is minimal. This supermoon is a straightforward, yet stunning, astronomical event—the final one for 2025, closing out a three-month series and serving as December's only full moon.
FAQs at a Glance:
What is the Super Cold Moon?
It is the traditional name for December's full moon, associated with the cold season, and it happens to be the final supermoon of 2025.
Why is it a supermoon?
It earns the 'super' title because it occurs when the moon is at or near its closest point to Earth (perigee), making it appear larger and brighter.
What is the best time to see it in India?
The supermoon peaks in brightness on the night of December 4-5. For the most dramatic view, look east just after moonrise on the evening of December 4.
