Due to an optical effect known as the moon illusion, the full moon can appear huge when rising behind distant objects on the horizon. The supermoon looks particularly impressive.
What is a supermoon?
When the Moon’s orbit brings it closer to Earth than usual, the cosmic conjunction is called a supermoon. When this happens, the Moon may appear slightly larger and brighter than normal. The supermoon may appear 14% larger and 30% brighter than the weakest moon of the year.
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“Different publications use slightly different thresholds to decide when a full moon is close enough to Earth to qualify as a supermoon,” NASA said. “Because the Moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle, the Moon is sometimes closer to Earth than at other times during its orbit.”
Why is the December full moon called the Cold Moon?
The term Cold Moon originates from the Mohawk tribe, who named it for the cold conditions occurring during it. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the moon was also called the “Moon of the Long Night” by the Mohicans.
When will be the next full moon?
A full moon usually occurs every 29 days, but because most months are 30 or 31 days, it is sometimes possible to have two full moons in the same month.
If you missed this last full supermoon in 2025, you’ll have three chances to see a supermoon next year.
Doyle Rice’s contribution
Sources NASA, TheSkyLive.com, MoonPhaseToday.org, EarthSky.org and USA TODAY research
This graphic was updated to add new information.
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