![The Cold Moon: What It Is, Why It’s Called That, and Everything You Need to Know About the last Supermoon of the Year [FOTOS]](http://depor.com/resizer/v2/WV5NOTLA2VDRTMI6ENKFF4PIQ4.png?auth=7df69d00d042f6e7340176123e6c533ac1a9fcac4a83b4ce8762dc53b3bf41f0&width=980&height=528&quality=75&smart=true)
The year’s final full moon, known as the “Cold Moon,” will illuminate the sky this Thursday, December 4th, reaching its peak at 6:14 p.m. EST. This event also marks 2025’s last supermoon—a phenomenon that occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest point to Earth, called perigee, making it appear larger than usual.
“‘Supermoon’ is not an official astronomical term, but it is typically used to describe a full moon that is at least within 90% of perigee,” NASA explained.
This moon also goes by the name “Long Night Moon” and follows October’s Harvest Moon and November’s Beaver Moon. Spiritually, the Cold Moon is often associated with a period of introspection, calm, and quiet growth.
Although darkness may favor observation at the exact moment of peak illumination, the moon will appear full throughout the night, weather permitting. Some people choose to observe it just after moonrise, when it appears larger due to the well-known “moon illusion effect.”
Why Is the Year’s Last Full Moon Called the Cold Moon?
The year’s final full moon carries the traditional name “Cold Moon” due to the harsh weather conditions that characterize December in the Northern Hemisphere.
This term originates from Native American traditions, such as those of the Mohawk tribe, as well as European customs, where people named full moons to keep track of the seasons.
The name directly references the intense winter cold that begins to set in during this time of year.
Beyond its connection to low temperatures, this full moon occurs very close to the winter solstice, which marks the longest night of the year. For this reason, it is also known as the Long Night Moon.
How to See the Cold Moon from the United States
The December 4th Cold Moon will be visible across the entire United States, as long as skies are clear.
As a full moon, it can be seen from anywhere in the world on Earth’s nighttime side.
In New York, sunset will be around 4:28 p.m. EST, and the moon will rise at 3:54 p.m. EST. In Los Angeles, the sun will set at 4:43 p.m. PST, and the moon will appear at 4:22 p.m. PST. The best approach is to find a dark location, away from artificial light, with an unobstructed view of the sky.
No special equipment is needed to enjoy this winter moon, though binoculars or a telescope can help you appreciate its details more clearly.
If you plan to spend time observing, it’s wise to dress warmly and bring something hot to drink.
Finally, when you get your 2026 calendar, mark January 3rd—the date of next year’s first full moon: the Wolf Moon, named for the howling of wolves that remain active during the winter months.
What Time to Watch in the United States
If you are in the United States, the Cold Moon’s observation time will depend on your time zone. Below are the approximate times for major time zones:
| Time zone | Peak Illumination |
|---|---|
| Eastern Standard Time (EST) | 6:14 p.m. on December 4 |
| Central Standard Time (CST) | 5:14 p.m. on December 4 |
| Mountain Standard Time (MST) | 4:14 p.m. on December 4 |
| Pacific Standard Time (PST) | 3:14 p.m. on December 4 |
Remember, the moon will be visible starting the night befare, and you can appreciate it in all its splendor throughout the night of December 4th.
