Cold Moon in 2025 — what will surprise the full moon on December 5th
December 2025 is rich in astronomical events. One of them is a unique supermoon, also known as the Cold Moon. On the night of December 4-5, the Earth's satellite will appear 7.9% larger and 15% brighter than usual. In addition, it will be the highest full moon for the next 18 years. Izvestia tells us when and how to observe the Cold Moon and what effect it has on people.
Supermoon on December 5, 2025 — what is the peculiarity of the Cold Moon
The last full moon of 2025 is unique for several reasons. First of all, it's not just a full moon, it's a supermoon. This is the name given to the moments when the Earth's satellite gets as close to the planet as possible, which makes it look bigger and brighter.
On the night of December 5, the distance between the Moon and the Earth will be less than 360 thousand km. Due to this, the size of the celestial body will visually increase by 7.9%, and its brightness by 15%. And although the difference will not be so noticeable to the naked eye, it can be seen in astrophotographs.
The December full moon has another distinguishing feature — its proximity to the winter solstice makes it the highest of the year. The fact is that the Moon, like the Sun, changes its trajectory throughout the year, rising higher or lower above the horizon. In the Northern Hemisphere, it reaches its lowest point in June and its highest point in December. In Yuzhny, the opposite is true.
At the same time, the orbit of our planet's satellite has an inclination of 5.1 degrees relative to the ecliptic (the trajectory of the Sun across the sky), which in turn is inclined by 23.4 degrees from the celestial equator. Because of this, the moon's trajectory is gradually moving north or south. The full cycle of displacement takes about 18.6 years.
In 2024-2025, there is a rare phase of this cycle, known as the "big moon stop." At this time, the satellite's orbital inclination reaches its maximum, which allows it to rise very high above the horizon. Therefore, the full moon on December 5 will be the highest in the Northern Hemisphere in the last 18 years. The moon will be visible most of the night, and tall objects like buildings or mountains will not be able to obscure it, which will create ideal conditions for observations. The next time something like this happens will be in 2042.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the picture will be the opposite — the Cold Moon will become the lowest full moon in recent years and will turn into warm orange shades due to its proximity to the horizon.
Why is the December Moon called Cold?
The name "Cold Moon" came from the culture of Native Americans, in particular the Mohawk tribe. It reflects the sharp drop in temperature that occurs with the onset of winter. The tribes of North America named the full moon for the entire month until the next full moon, so the Mohawk name also means "cold time."
In the Northern Hemisphere, the December full moon is the closest to the winter solstice, marking the longest night of the year. Because of this, it is also called the Moon of the Long Night. Among the Germanic peoples, the Yule holiday was timed to coincide with the winter solstice, hence another name — the Moon before Yule. December is a warm month in the Southern Hemisphere, so the local names of the full moon are associated with summer, such as Strawberry Moon.
What else is the December full moon called?:
- China — The Bitter Moon;
- Medieval England — Moon of Oak;
- Colonial America — The Christmas Moon;
- The southern hemisphere is a Honey-Colored, Pink Moon.
Supermoon in December 2025 — when and at what time to watch
From an astronomical point of view, a full moon is a moment of direct confrontation between the Moon and the Sun. It will come on December 5 at 02:14 Moscow time. However, for observers on earth, the lunar disk will appear fully illuminated during the day before and after this moment.
The full moon rises around sunset and stays in the sky most of the night. For the best view, it is recommended to choose a place with minimal urban illumination and an open southern horizon, such as a park, a field or the shore of a reservoir. You can enjoy the spectacle without special equipment — in clear weather, the supermoon will be perfectly visible to the naked eye.
Cold Moon on December 5th — human impact
From the point of view of astronomical science, the full moon has no effect on the physical and emotional state of people. However, astrologers attach special importance to this event.
In 2025, the Cold Moon will rise under the sign of Gemini, which symbolizes the desire for change and spontaneity. Experts note that this period can be difficult for active people. Energy will flow over the edge, and unexpected and fascinating ideas will fill your head. However, caution should be exercised — not all solutions that seem brilliant at the moment will actually benefit.
In addition, the Moon in the constellation Gemini can increase the anxiety and suggestibility of individuals. At this time, it is easy to succumb to manipulation and go along with impulsive desires. Therefore, on December 5, it is better to abandon large purchases, transactions, working with documents and other matters that require care and a clear mind. Also, you should not sort things out and get into arguments — seething emotions can turn even a constructive discussion into a conflict.
The cold Moon is traditionally perceived as a symbol of peace and deep reflection. It is associated with inner resilience and quiet strength — the ability to survive the darkest and coldest nights in order to be reborn refreshed. This is a great reason to take time to rest and recover. It will be useful to engage in sports and creativity — this will help maintain a physical and emotional state.
Earlier, Izvestia shared an accurate horoscope for December for all zodiac signs.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
