The last full moon of the year graced wintery skies across the northern hemisphere last night. Photographers around the world were inspired by its ghostly light and many have taken to social media to share their shots.
The December moon is often called the Cold Moon, which, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac, was a name given by the Native American Mohawk tribe. With just three weeks left until the winter solstice, the night sky is very dark, creating perfect viewing conditions to observe the moon, stars, and planets. But this year's Cold Moon was particularly special.
Why Was This Full Moon Special?
The full moon on December 7 coincided with two rare astronomical events: the occultation of Mars and Mars' opposition.
The occultation of Mars takes place when the red planet passes behind the moon. This particular event was only visible across parts of Europe and North America, and the next lunar occultation of Mars will not occur until January 2025.
Barry Clough, an amateur photographer in West Sussex, U.K., caught the moment of occultation on camera. "I set my alarm for 4 a.m. and watched a full moon in clear skies as the event unfolded," he told Newsweek.
Alan Crossland, a photographer in the U.K., captured the moon hovering in the sky next to London's iconic Big Ben clock tower. "It was fantastic," he told Newsweek. "Especially with Mars sitting alongside it after the occultation and with Westminster alongside. One of those perfect times when everything works out!"
The night of December 7 also marks the point in the red planet's orbit where it is "in opposition" to Earth, meaning it is on the direct opposite side of our planet, compared to the Sun. In other words, Mars, the Earth, and the Sun line up perfectly.
On December 1, Mars also hit the point in its orbit around the Sun where it is as close to Earth as it can get. Just days after this approach, the planet is still very bright in the night sky.
Is There a Full Moon Tonight?
The full moon occurred Wednesday night at 11:08 p.m. ET. However, it will still appear full to casual stargazers tonight.
Mars will still appear bright in the sky.
When Is the Next Full Moon?
The next full moon will take place on January 17, known as the Wolf Moon, followed by the Snow Moon on February 16 and the Worm Moon on March 18.
Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about the moon? Let us know via science@newsweek.com.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Pandora Dewan is a Senior Science Reporter at Newsweek based in London, UK. Her focus is reporting on science, health ... Read more
To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.
