Stunning Cold Moon Lights Up the Autumn Sky

Quick Smiles:

• Tonight marks the final supermoon of 2025, visible across the US.
• A supermoon looks larger due to its close approach to Earth during perigee.
• The Cold Moon is rich with cultural names and natural significance.

Stargazers in the United States have a wonderful treat tonight as the last of three consecutive autumn supermoons rises just after 5:00 pm. This special full moon appears bigger and brighter, offering a marvelous sight near the horizon thanks to the enchanting Moon illusion.

A supermoon occurs when the Moon is full during perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it up to 8% larger than a regular full moon and 14% bigger than a micromoon.

“Being near perigee and full, this Moon can also produce slightly higher tides, known as perigean spring tides or king tides, especially along coastlines,” writes Old Farmer’s Almanac.

This December full moon is often called the “Cold Moon,” a name given by the Mohawk, while the Mohican called it the Long Night Moon. Other Native American tribes linked it to winter phenomena, like deer shedding antlers or frost cracking trees.

Don’t miss this chance for inspiring near-winter stargazing—step outside and enjoy nature’s spectacular show tonight!

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