December’s full moon is appropriately called the “Full Cold Moon,” although that name isn’t quite as relevant this year, considering the lack of bitter air around the country.
The moon will become its fullest at 7:33 p.m. ET/4:33 p.m. PT on Tuesday, Dec. 26.
December’s full moon is also sometimes called the Moon Before Yule, since it happens near the ancient celebration around the winter solstice. Native American names include the Long Night Moon–also because it falls near the winter solstice and the longest night of the year–and Big Winter Moon.
No matter the name, you can use the moon to find a couple of constellations. In the evening, it’ll appear right above Gemini and left of Orion. In the morning, Gemini is left of the moon and Orion is below.
You can also see the Big Dipper and Little Dipper in the northern sky throughout the night.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
A strong geomagnetic storm is expected Friday night. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4…
Not every thunderstorm spawns a tornado, but when they do, the strong rotating wind can…
A large storm system crossed the Rockies over the weekend. It produced rain and snow…
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season doesn't begin until June 1, but we're already watching an…
Widespread flooding in Dubai last week has people wondering if cloud seeding is to blame…
A system sparking a severe weather outbreak over parts of the southeastern U.S. today will…