On December 4, 2025, the night sky will showcase the Cold Moon, the final full moon of the year — and the last supermoon of 2025.
Rising bright and high above winter landscapes, this moon marks the arrival of long nights, crisp air, and the quiet beauty of early winter.
Because it occurs near lunar perigee (the Moon’s closest point to Earth), this Cold Moon will appear slightly larger and brighter than a typical full moon.
What Is the Cold Moon?
The name Cold Moon comes from early Indigenous and colonial winter traditions. December is the month where the cold deepens, nights grow longer, and the land becomes quiet under winter’s early snow.
Other traditional names:
- Long Night Moon
- Winter Moon
- Snow Moon (regional variations)
All highlight December as the beginning of deep winter.
When to See the Cold Moon
- Peak illumination: December 4, 2025
- Visibility: Worldwide
- Best viewing time: Just after moonrise for maximum size and color
Because it coincides with perigee, this Cold Moon will stay bright and visible for nearly the entire night.
Is the Cold Moon a Supermoon?
Yes — this December 4 full moon is officially a Supermoon.
A supermoon occurs when:
- The Moon is full, and
- The Moon is near perigee (its closest point to Earth)
During a supermoon, the Moon can appear:
- Up to 14% larger
- Up to 30% brighter
The December 4 Cold Moon is recognized as the final supermoon of 2025, making it a year-ending highlight for sky watchers.
Why the Cold Moon Looks So Bright
Winter air is:
- drier
- clearer
- less turbulent
This allows moonlight to shine with exceptional clarity.
Combined with perigee, the 2025 Cold Moon will be especially sharp and luminous, producing strong reflections on snow, ice, and frozen waters.
Astronomy Notes for the 2025 Cold Moon
- Full Moon in Gemini
- Takes a high path across the sky due to Earth’s tilt
- Visible for longer-than-average hours
- Final full moon and final supermoon of 2025
This makes it one of the brightest and most photogenic full moons of the year.
How to Photograph the Cold Moon
- Use a tripod for stability
- Keep ISO low (100–400)
- Telephoto lens (200mm–600mm) recommended
- Include foreground like trees, lakes, or snow
- Shoot at moonrise for dramatic size on the horizon
Final Thoughts
The December 4 Cold Moon brings together:
- the stillness of winter,
- the beauty of long nights, and
- the brightness of a supermoon.
As the last full moon and final supermoon of 2025, it offers a perfect closing to the year’s night sky — calm, luminous, and unforgettable.
