Tonight the sky delivers one of winter's most striking spectacles: the full Snow Moon, reaching peak illumination around 5:09 p.m. ET (22:09 GMT / 10:09 p.m. in the UK). Whether you're bundled up in the Northern Hemisphere watching snowflakes drift or enjoying clearer skies elsewhere, this luminous orb will rise dramatically in the east around sunset, appearing extra large and golden low on the horizon.

Why "Snow Moon"?The name comes from Native American traditions, honoring the heavy snowfalls that often blanket the landscape in February. Some tribes also called it the Hunger Moon (reflecting scarce food during deep winter) or Storm Moon (for the season's turbulent weather). Whatever you call it, the February full moon has long symbolized endurance through the coldest months and the quiet promise of spring just over the horizon.

Where (and How) to See It Tonight Best viewing time: Head out shortly after sunset when the moon is rising— it looks biggest and most dramatic near the horizon due to the "moon illusion."

Direction: Look east. The moon will climb higher through the night, shining brightly until dawn. Constellation companion: It sits near Cancer (the Crab), close to the beautiful Beehive Cluster (M44). If you have binoculars or a small telescope, scan nearby for this sparkling open star cluster—it adds extra magic.

Pro tip: Dress warmly if you're in a snowy region, find a spot away from city lights, and let your eyes adjust for about 20 minutes. The contrast against a dark winter sky makes it unforgettable.

Astrologically, this full moon falls in Leo (or appears near the Cancer-Leo boundary depending on exact timing and location), encouraging bold self-expression, creativity, and heart-centered release. It's a perfect night for journaling intentions, taking a moonlit walk, or simply basking in the glow with loved ones.Whether you see it as a scientific wonder (100% illuminated, opposite the Sun in Earth's sky) or a moment of seasonal reflection, tonight's Snow Moon invites us to pause and appreciate the quiet beauty of winter.Have you stepped outside yet? Share your photos or feelings in the comments—I'd love to hear how the moon looks from your corner of the world! Happy Snow Moon gazing!

Tribes across the United States have their own names for February's full moon, according to the Western Washington University Planetarium. The Arapaho in the Great Plains have the closest name to Snow Moon, which is "frost sparkling in the sun." Other tribes have names that are the opposite, like the Zuni Tribe in New Mexico who call it "onon u'la'ukwamme," which means "no snow in trails."

Some tribes named this full moon after animals. The Tlingit Tribe in the Pacific Northwest call it "s'eek dis" or "black bear moon." The Haida Tribe in Alaska call it "hlgit'un kungáay" or "goose moon."

February's full moon is also known as the "Full Hunger Moon" because food was scarce and hunting was difficult for ancient tribes during this month.

February Moon names from different cultures Ice (Celtic). Old Moon (Cree). Gray Moon (Pima). Wind Moon (Creek). Winter Moon (Taos). Nuts Moon (Natchez). Avunnivik Moon (Inuit). Geese Moon (Omaha). Bony Moon (Cherokee). Purification Moon (Hopi). Little bud Moon (Kiowa). Snow Moon (Neo-Pagan). Lateness Moon (Mohawk). Shoulder Moon (Wishram). Rabbit Moon (Potawatomi). Sucker Moon (Anishnaabe). Long Dry Moon (Assiniboine). Little Famine Moon (Choctaw). Storm Moon (Medieval English). Sparkling Frost Moon (Arapaho). Running Fish Moon (Winnebago). Coyote Frighten Moon (San Juan). Spruce Tips Moon (Passamaquoddy). Raccoon Moon, Trees Pop Moon (Sioux). Hunger Moon : Dark, Storm Moon : Full (Janic). Snow Moon, Hunger Moon, Trappers Moon (Algonquin).

Other moon names: Wolf Moon, Wild Moon, Quickening Moon, Solmonath Moon, Chaste Moon, Horning Moon, Red Moon, Big Winter Moon, Cleansing Moon.

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Published: January 3, 2026 Tonight, the first full moon of 2026 illuminates the winter sky—the Wolf Moon, a stunning supermoon that appears larger and brighter than usual. As the fourth consecutive supermoon (following those in late 2025), this celestial event marks a brilliant start to the year. It reaches peak illumination today, January 3, offering skywatchers a perfect opportunity to gaze upward.

When and How to See the Wolf Moon The full moon reaches its peak at approximately 5:03 a.m. EST (10:03 GMT) on January 3, 2026. However, the best viewing occurs in the evening when it rises in the east around sunset.

It appears nearly full on the nights of January 2 and 3, glowing brightly overhead by midnight.This year's Wolf Moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs near perigee, the moon's closest point to Earth. This makes it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.

Look low on the horizon during moonrise for the most dramatic effect—the "moon illusion" combined with atmospheric effects often creates an orange hue and oversized appearance.Clear skies provide ideal conditions in many areas, coinciding with the peak of the Quadrantid meteor shower on January 3-4 for potential double viewing.

Whether you observe with the naked eye, binoculars, or a telescope, the Wolf Moon reminds us of nature's rhythms. Bundle up, step outside tonight, and let this luminous supermoon inspire your 2026.

Wolves hold symbolic power in many cultures, representing intuition, community, survival, and the wild spirit—perfect for January's introspective energy.

January Moon Names: Man Moon (Taos). Joyful Moon (Hopi). Avunniviayuk (Inuit). Quite Moon (Celtic). Ice Moon (San Juan). Cold Moon (Cherokee). Ice Moon (Neo-Pagan). Flying Ant Moon(Apache). Big Cold Moon (Mohawk). Cooking Moon (Choctaw). Strong Cold Moon (Sioux). Little Winter Moon (Creek). Her Cold Moon (Wishram). Cold Meal Moon (Natchez). Moon After Yule (Cherokee). Wolf Moon (Medieval English). Strong Cold Moon (Cheyenne). Quiet : Dark, Wolf : Full (Janic). Great Spirit Moon (Anishnaabe). Whirling Wind Moon (Passamaquoddy).

Wolf Moon, Old Moon, Winter Moon, Yule Moon (Algonquin).

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As the chill of December settles in and the days grow shorter, the night sky gifts us with one of its most poetic spectacles: the Cold Moon. Tonight, on December 4, 2025, the full Moon reaches its peak illumination at 14:48 UTC, casting a silvery glow that feels both comforting and haunting against the frosty backdrop of winter. Known also as the Frost Moon or Winter Moon, this celestial event isn't just a pretty sight—it's a timeless marker of seasonal transition, steeped in history and wonder. If you're bundling up for an evening stargaze, here's everything you need to know about tonight's Cold Moon and why it's worth braving the cold for.

What Is the Cold Moon?

The term "Cold Moon" harks back to ancient traditions of naming full Moons after the rhythms of nature. As the 13th (or sometimes 12th, depending on the calendar) full Moon of the year, it signals the grip of winter's onset—the darkest, coldest months when frost blankets the ground and winds howl through bare trees. Unlike scientific labels, these nicknames, popularized by Native American tribes, colonial settlers, and early European farmers, tie lunar cycles to earthly changes. The Cold Moon doesn't alter the Moon's physical appearance; it's the same silvery orb we've admired for millennia. But in December's embrace, it feels profoundly different—brighter, bolder, and a beacon in the long nights.

Fun fact: This isn't just any full Moon. In 2025, it's the final supermoon of the year, meaning our satellite is at perigee (its closest point to Earth), appearing about 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full Moon. At around 356,500 kilometers away tonight, it's a cosmic close-up you won't want to miss.

A Glimpse into History and Cultural Lore

Long before streetlights and screens lit our nights, the Cold Moon was a lifeline. Imagine indigenous communities or early settlers navigating frozen landscapes under its glow—hunting, gathering, or simply finding solace in the darkness. The bright light pierced the winter gloom, offering safe passage after sunset and a sense of continuity amid the hardship.

While specific myths around the Cold Moon are sparse compared to, say, the Harvest Moon's bountiful tales, it embodies winter's dual spirit: harsh yet hopeful. In some folklore, it's a time for reflection, with the Moon's cold light inviting introspection as the year wanes. Closer to the solstice, it whispers of renewal—the promise of longer days post-December 21. And let's not forget its festive tie-in: rising just weeks before Christmas, the Cold Moon has inspired countless yuletide stories of snowy nights and midnight magic.

Tonight's Sky:> What to Look For on December 4 Step outside after sunset (around 4:30 PM local time in most of the US, depending on your timezone), and head east-northeast. The Cold Moon will climb steadily, starting low on the horizon where it often plays tricks on the eye. Ever notice how the rising Moon looks enormous? That's the "Moon illusion"—a psychological quirk making it seem three times bigger against earthly landmarks like trees or buildings. As it ascends, it may take on an orange or rusty hue from atmospheric scattering, evoking a harvest orb misplaced in winter.

But the real magic unfolds in the surrounding sky. Tonight's Cold Moon forms a striking celestial triangle with the sparkling Pleiades star cluster (the "Seven Sisters") and the fiery orange star Aldebaran in Taurus. High above, Jupiter shines like a steady lantern, while the mighty Orion the Hunter strides into view, belt and sword at the ready. If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, this lineup turns the eastern sky into a winter wonderland—perfect for myth-makers who saw Orion as a eternal chase across the stars.One caveat: The Moon's brilliance can wash out fainter deep-sky gems like galaxies or meteor trails. If you're chasing the Geminid meteor shower (peaking December 13-14), save that for later nights. For now, let the Cold Moon steal the show.

December Full Moon Names From Native American Tribes Kaitvitjuitk (Inuit). Cold Moon (Celtic). Night Moon (Taos). Respect Moon (Hopi). Bitter Moon (Chinese). Peach Moon (Choctaw). Twelfth Moon (Dakotah). Big Winter Moon (Creek) Real Goose Moon (Kiowa). Cold Time Moon (Mohawk). Ashes Fire Moon (San Juan). Oak Moon (Medieval English). Big Bear’s Moon (Winnebago). Long Night Moon (Neo-Pagan). Popping Trees Moon (Arapaho). Running Wolves Moon (Cheyenne). Frost Fish Moon (Passamaquoddy). Cold Moon, Long Nights Moon (Algonquin). Snow Moon, Before Yule Moon (Cherokee). Oak Moon : Full, : Snow Moon Dark (Janic). Popping Tress Moon, Deer Horn Shedding Moon (Sioux).

Other moon names : Wolf Moon, Turning Moon, Heavy Snow Moon, Aerra Geola, Under Burn Moon, Big Winter Moon, Winter Maker Moon, Yellow Leaves Moon, Little Finger Moon, Mid-Winter Moon, Wintermonat, Small Spirits Moon.

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In a world that often feels like it's speeding by too fast, the passing of Gramma the Galápagos tortoise serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring wonders of nature. At an astonishing 141 years old, Gramma—affectionately dubbed the "Queen of the San Diego Zoo"—has left us, her shell a testament to resilience, her slow shuffle a symbol of quiet majesty. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy will echo through the sun-dappled enclosures of the zoo and far beyond.

A Life Spanning Centuries

Born around 1884, Gramma hatched into a world where Queen Victoria still reigned in Britain, the Eiffel Tower was a mere gleam in Gustave Eiffel's eye, and the automobile was little more than a mad inventor's dream. She was a giant among Galápagos tortoises (Chelonopus niger), a species native to the remote volcanic islands that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. These gentle giants can live well over a century, but Gramma pushed the boundaries of longevity, outliving wars, pandemics, and countless technological revolutions.

Gramma arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1928, a gift from a collector who had acquired her in Ecuador. For nearly a century, she roamed the zoo's expansive habitats, her wrinkled neck stretching skyward like an ancient periscope surveying her domain. Weighing in at over 100 pounds and measuring nearly four feet long, she was a living relic, her domed shell etched with the stories of time itself.

The Queen of the Zoo

What made Gramma truly regal wasn't just her age—it was her presence. Visitors to the San Diego Zoo often sought her out, drawn to the spectacle of this ponderous matriarch ambling through her leafy enclosure. Zookeepers recall her with a mix of awe and fondness: she was picky about her salads (favoring hibiscus leaves over anything else), notoriously slow to warm up to new companions, and possessed of a stubborn streak that could rival any toddler's tantrum. Yet, she embodied the unhurried wisdom of her kind, pausing to munch on dandelions while the world buzzed around her.

"Gramma wasn't just a tortoise; she was a cornerstone of our collection," said zoo curator of reptiles, Dr. Elena Vasquez, in a statement released today. "She greeted generations of families, teaching us all about patience and the beauty of the natural world. At 141, she lived a full life, and her passing is a heavy heart for everyone here."

Over the decades, Gramma became an icon. She starred in countless educational programs, her image gracing zoo brochures and documentaries. Children pressed their faces to the glass, whispering secrets to her as if she were a wise grandmother (a fitting nickname, indeed). And in her later years, as arthritis slowed her steps, the zoo's veterinary team provided tender care, including custom ramps and a heated basking spot to mimic the sun-soaked rocks of her ancestral islands.

A Legacy of Conservation and Wonder

Gramma's life wasn't without its shadows. The Galápagos tortoise population has dwindled dramatically due to habitat loss, invasive species, and historical overexploitation—factors that nearly drove her subspecies to extinction. Yet, through the San Diego Zoo's efforts, Gramma became a beacon for conservation. The zoo's breeding programs have successfully hatched hundreds of her kin, bolstering wild populations and restoring hope to the archipelago. She was more than a resident; she was an ambassador, reminding us why we fight to protect the fragile threads of biodiversity.

In her final days, Gramma passed peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by the familiar scents of alfalfa and the gentle hum of the zoo she called home. Tributes are already pouring in from around the globe—social media alight with photos of her majestic form, and visitors leaving flowers at her enclosure gate.

As we bid adieu to this extraordinary creature, let's take a page from Gramma's book: slow down, savor the simple joys, and carry forward the lessons of endurance. The Queen may have left her throne, but her spirit endures—in the rustle of tortoise shells yet to hatch, in the stories we'll tell our grandchildren, and in the timeless rhythm of the natural world.

Rest easy, Gramma. You've earned your eternal nap.

If you're in San Diego, the zoo is hosting a memorial viewing this weekend. For more on Galápagos conservation, visit the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's website.

Sources: San Diego Zoo press release and historical archives. This post is dedicated to all the unsung heroes of the animal kingdom.

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This week brings the largest supermoon of the year. Supermoons occur because the moon’s orbit is not perfectly circular around the Earth. Instead, it is an ellipse, meaning that sometimes the moon will be closer to the Earth than at other times.

When a full moon coincides with the moon being within 10% of its closest point to Earth, we call it a supermoon. Its proximity makes it appear subtly bigger and brighter than other full moons.

On 5 November 2025, the moon will be just under 357,000km from Earth, making it the nearest full moon of the year, and therefore the largest supermoon. It will appear 8% larger and about 16% brighter than average.

Why “Beaver” and Why So Super?Native American and colonial traditions dubbed November’s full moon the Beaver Moon because this is when beavers finish stocking their lodges for winter—or when trappers set their traps before rivers froze. Other indigenous names include Frost Moon, Freezing Moon, or Whitefish Moon. This year, it’s also the second in a trio of consecutive supermoons (October’s Harvest, November’s Beaver, December’s Cold).

A supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with perigee—the moon’s closest orbital point to Earth. On November 5, perigee falls just hours after peak fullness at 13:19 UTC (8:19 a.m. EST / 1:19 p.m. GMT), creating the tightest alignment of 2025. The last time we saw a full moon this close? February 2019.

When & Where to LookThe moon technically peaks in daylight for most of the Americas and Europe, so sunset on Wednesday, November 5 is prime time. Look east as twilight deepens—the moon will rise golden-orange and enormous against the horizon.

Step outside tonight, tilt your chin, and let 4.5 billion years of lunar clockwork wash over you. No telescope, no app, no filter needed—just you and the biggest, brightest Beaver Moon of our lifetime.Clear skies, friends.

Native American Names for November Full Moon Itartoryuk Moon (Inuit). Tree Moon (Neo-Pagan). Poverty Moon (Mohawk). Trading Moon (Cherokee). Geese Going Moon (Kiowa). Falling Leaves moon (Sioux). Fledgling Raptor Moon (Hopi). Deer Ruting Moon (Cheyenne). Freezing River Moon(Arapaho). Snow Moon (Mediaeval English). Mourning Moon : Full, Dead : Dark (Janic). Corn Harvest Moon (Taos Native American). Snowy Morning Mountains Moon (Wishram). All Gathered Moon (San Juan Native American). Beaver Moon, Frosty Moon (Algonquin Native American/Colonia).

Other moon names : Fog Moon, Deer Antler Shedding moon, Oak moon, Mad moon, Storm moon, Dark moon.

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