Calling all star gazers and moon dreamers alike! The very first full moon of the year — also known as the Wolf Moon — is marking a bright start to 2025. It will truly be a sight to see, as this moon is set to pass in front of planet Mars and will stick around for a couple of days. Here’s what you should know about the celestial wonder and when to best catch it:
🐺🌕 When to see tonight’s full moon
According to NASA, the full moon will reach peak illumination around sunset at 5:27 p.m. ET on January 13th. There’s no way you’ll miss it, as the moon will be visible through Wednesday morning!
Interestingly, this Wolf Moon will pass in front of Mars, which will be the closest and brightest on Wednesday. It’ll cause an ‘occultation,’ or when one object passes in front of another from an observer’s perspective, according to Space.com. An example of an occultation is a solar eclipse.
🐺🌕 Why it’s called the Wolf Moon
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Wolf Moon gets its moniker from a number of cultures, including Native American, Colonial American and European. It is believe that this month’s moon is named after the fact that wolves were often heard howling during January winters.
Aside from Wolf Moon, other names include the Ice Moon, Old Moon and the Moon after Yule.
🐺🌕 When is the next full moon?
Mark your calendars for next month, because the following full moon — a Snow Moon — will be on February 12th. It will reach peak illumination at 8:53 a.m. ET.