Full moon December 2024

What's Happening: The December Full Moon, "Cold Moon" 2024

Introduction

As the year draws to a close, a significant celestial event is expected to captivate skywatchers worldwide. The December full moon, also known as the "Cold Moon," is set to reach its peak illumination on the weekend. With its breathtaking display, this lunar phenomenon has generated substantial interest, attracting a traffic volume of 10,000 online buzz. In this article, we delve into the official coverage, explore the background context, and analyze the impact and future implications of this event.

Official Coverage

According to CBS News, the December full moon is the last full moon of 2024. [1] Skywatchers who want to see it at its fullest should be prepared to head out this weekend, as the moon will reach peak illumination at 4:02 a.m. EST. This lunar event offers a unique opportunity for stargazers to witness the moon in all its glory.

El Paso Times provides additional insights into the full moon in December 2024, highlighting the fact that the last month of the year will bring one last full moon and possibly a shooting star. [2] In the Northern Hemisphere, winter sets in, and the full moon will be a notable event.

Background Context

While there is limited additional context available, it is worth noting that the term "Cold Moon" is a traditional name for December's full moon in many Western cultures. It is often associated with the harsh winter weather and the longest night of the year.

Impact Analysis

The December full moon, "Cold Moon," is expected to have a significant impact on stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. With its peak illumination on the weekend, people are likely to take time off work or school to witness this celestial event. The associated possibility of a shooting star adds an extra layer of excitement, making it a must-see event for many.

Future Implications

As we look ahead to future full moons, it is essential to note that the December full moon marks the beginning of the winter solstice season in the Northern Hemisphere. This period is often associated with shorter days and longer nights, making the full moon a particularly striking event. In the coming years, the December full moon will continue to offer a breathtaking display of lunar beauty, captivating the imagination of skywatchers worldwide.

References

[1] CBS News. (2024, December). December's Cold Moon is the last full moon of 2024. Here's when it happens. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/december-full-cold-moon-2024/

[2] El Paso Times. (2024, December). What to know about full moon in December 2024. Retrieved from https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/news/texasregion/2024/12/14/what-to-know-about-full-moon-in-december-2024/76973596007/