As 2025 draws to a close, the Moon is set to deliver its own grand finale. December’s Cold Supermoon will shine brighter, rise higher, and remain visible longer than any other full moon this year, making it the most prominent lunar event of the month.
When to watch the Cold Supermoon (IST timings) The last full moon of the year will reach peak fullness at 6:50 pm IST on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Even though it becomes technically “full” at that moment, it will look full on December 4 and 5, perfect for skywatchers who want to catch it more than once. Why is it called the “Cold Moon” December’s moon has many traditional names because it marks the start of deep winter across the Northern Hemisphere. Cultures have called it: All these names point to either freezing temperatures, long nights, or winter traditions. Also read: NASA lets you send your name to Moon for free
What makes this a supermoon? This full moon is special because it occurs when the Moon is close to Earth, within 90% of perigee, its nearest point.
That makes it: It’s also the second-biggest supermoon of 2025, only slightly smaller than November’s Beaver Moon. It will rise higher than any other full moon December’s full moon always climbs the highest in the night sky. As the winter solstice approaches on December 21, the Sun dips to its lowest point in the sky, so the full moon, which always sits opposite the Sun, reaches its highest point of the year. That’s why the Cold Moon often feels extra bright and dramatic. Also read: Watch the Moon and Saturn glowing side-by-side in evening sky
A rare lunar cycle is ending This year’s event also lines up with the end of an 18.6-year cycle called the ‘Major Lunar Standstill.’
During this period, the Moon’s tilt is at its maximum, making moonrises appear farther north and making the Moon climb higher than usual. Watch the cold moon online If clouds spoil your view, you can catch livestreams: Virtual Telescope Project Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles Also read: ISRO unveils Chandrayaan-2 data for study of moon’s polar regions
What’s upcoming? The first full moon of 2026 will be the Wolf Moon, arriving on January 3, 2026, and will also be the fourth supermoon in a row. 2026 will feature 13 full moons, including a Blue Moon in May.
If you love skywatching, this week is your moment. Step outside, look east after sunset, and watch 2025’s final full moon steal the show.
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