The year's longest - and the last - full moon rose tonight and will peak again on Sunday.
According to NASA, the Cold Moon will begin its run as the year's last full moon at 11:36 p.m. EST on Saturday. Due to the close proximity to midnight, most world regions will see it early Sunday morning.
It's also the year's longest full moon. NASA said the Cold Moon would be visible in the sky for a record amount of time. That is because the winter solstice begins just a day after the full moon finishes, at 10:59 EST on Tuesday. It will be out for 15 hours 33 minutes overnight Saturday in Washington, D.C., where NASA headquarters are situated.
NASA said several parts of the world, including Venezuela, Asia, Africa, and Australia, will experience Sunday. This time, the moon will be full for three days, from Friday evening to Monday morning, making for a "full moon weekend." According to timeanddate.com, solar noon may not always occur at real noon or 12 p.m. local time.
December Full Moon
The full moon is especially notable for its "high trajectory in the sky," according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. This indicates that it will be visible above the sky for a little longer.
Like all other full moons, the December full moon is known by various names. This includes the "Cold Moon," a Mohawk term for the colder weather at this time of year, the "Winter Maker Moon" (Western Abenaki), the "Snow Moon" (Haida, Cherokee), and the "Drift Clearing Moon" (Haida, Cherokee) (Cree).
Because it is the moon before the winter solstice, which happens on Tuesday morning, is also known as the "Moon before Yule." NASA said Yule is a three-day winter solstice holiday celebrated in pre-Christian Europe.
How to Watch Skies This December
Because the night sky in December is likely to be a little chillier than at other times of the year, space enthusiasts should keep some of NASA's guidelines in mind when gazing up at the stars. This includes the crucial recommendation to dress in various layers. In this manner, if it gets too hot, you can remove a layer to suit your needs.
It's also a good idea to carry warm clothing, such as gloves, blankets, hats, earmuffs, and even heat pads. Waterproof boots will assist keep your toes warm by preventing water from leaking through the boots.
Bringing a thermos of hot chocolate, soup, or tea can keep you warm and comfortable while allowing you to gaze up at the stars.
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