Last Supermoon of 2025 Today: December’s 'Cold Moon' to Rise in a Way Not Seen in 18 Years

Last Supermoon of 2025: December’s 'Cold Moon' to Rise in a Way Not Seen in 18 Years (image: canva)

December Supermoon 2025: Skywatchers are set for a striking celestial moment this week as the final full moon of the year, known as the Cold Moon, lights up the night sky. This December Cold Moon is a supermoon, shining brighter and appearing larger because the moon travels close to its perigee.

The name Cold Moon comes from the sharp drop in temperatures across the Northern Hemisphere as winter approaches. It is also called the Moon Before Yule, marking the last full moon before Christmas and the closing lunar event of the year.

The Cold Moon will rise on December 4, 2025. With the moon passing within 90 percent of its closest point to Earth, it may appear up to 30 percent brighter than the year’s smallest full moon. This makes it one of the most visually impressive supermoons of 2025.

This full moon aligns with the end of the 18.6-year Major Lunar Standstill, a rare phase when the moon’s orbital tilt reaches its peak. During this period, the moon rises farther north and climbs higher in the sky, creating dramatic and unusual viewing angles.

Those unable to watch the supermoon outdoors can tune into global livestreams.

The Virtual Telescope Project will broadcast live views from Manciano, Italy, on December 4 at 3 PM EST.

The Griffith Observatory will follow with its own livestream on December 5 at 8:27 PM EST, offering detailed telescopic visuals.

As the Cold Moon rises for the final time this year and in a rare formation not seen in nearly two decades - skywatchers have a chance to witness a moment that blends beauty, science, and celestial mystery. Whether you watch it unfold in the night sky or join a livestream from across the world, this supermoon marks a powerful close to 2025’s lunar calendar. Don’t miss the chance to pause, look up, and experience one of the year’s most unforgettable sky events.