Wolf Moon 2025: When and how to see it, peak visibility
Full moon also known as the "wolf moon" rises behind Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, United States on January 18, 2022. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
NEW YORK - The first full moon of the year, known as the Wolf Moon, will reach its peak visibility on Monday, FOX Weather reports.
NASA said the moon will appear full for about three days around this time, from Sunday evening (and possibly the last part of Sunday morning) into Wednesday morning.
When will the Wolf Moon be visible?
Big picture view:
The first full Moon of the year will rise in the east and peak at 5:27 p.m. EST.
The best viewing in North America will be on that Monday evening after the sun sets, according to FOX Weather.
The Old Farmer's Almanac provides detailed moonrise times tailored to specific ZIP codes across the United States. All you have to do is enter your zipcode.
In New York City, the moon will rise at 4:28 p.m. on Monday with 100% illumination, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
The moon will also not cross the meridian.
How did the Wolf Moon get its name?
The backstory:
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the nickname originates from the time period when Native Americans noticed wolves howling in hunger at the Moon.
FILE - A gray wolf is pictured howling in the snow at a wildlife park in Norway. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Other notable names for the lunar body include the Center Moon and the Cold Moon – all serve as reminders that the Northern Hemisphere is in the heart of winter.
How to view the Wolf Moon
How can I see the moon?:
No special equipment is required to view the moon, but if you'd like a closer look, NASA recommends using binoculars or a telescope if you have one.
When is the next full moon?
A full moon is pictured. (Credit: NASA)
According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, February's full moon, known as the Snow Moon, will reach peak illumination at 8:53 a.m. ET on Wednesday, Feb. 12.
The Source: This article uses information from FOX Weather, Old Farmer's Almanac and NASA.