Skywatchers across much of the United States will get their final chance this year to see a supermoon as December’s “Cold Moon” rises Thursday evening. The last in a trio of late-2025 supermoons, the event is expected to peak just after sunset at 6:15 p.m. EST.
The moon earns its seasonal name from the Mohawk tribe, and the title will feel especially fitting this year as cold air settles over large portions of the country. Forecasts show temperatures dipping below 40 degrees for many regions, prompting a reminder to bundle up before heading outside to watch.
Supermoons occur when the moon reaches the closest point in its orbit to Earth at the same time it becomes full. NASA notes that the effect can make the moon appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than at other times of the year. This week’s display follows supermoons already seen in October and November, a common cluster pattern in the lunar cycle.
The supermoon will be visible starting Wednesday night, though Thursday offers the clearest viewing opportunity. Weather conditions, however, will determine who gets the best show. Meteorologists expect the most favorable skies from the Southwest through the Northeast, where cloud cover should be relatively light. Heavy clouds in the Northwest, Northern Plains and parts of the Southeast may block the view entirely.
For those with clear skies, tonight presents a strong opportunity for night-sky photography. The bright, low-hung moon can offer dramatic images for anyone willing to brave the cold, and smartphone users can capture striking shots with the help of basic night-mode settings and stabilization techniques.
Anyone who misses the December display will not have to wait long for another chance. The first supermoon of 2026 is set to appear in January, followed by two more later that year in November and December.
Source: The Weather Channel