The Upcoming "Snow Moon" Full Moon on February 12, 2025

On February 12, 2025, the night sky will witness the glow of the “Snow Moon,” the first full moon of the year, marking an exciting celestial event. This full moon, named due to the heavy snowfall that often occurs in February in northern regions like North America, will be visible across the globe, but let’s first look at the time it will rise in the U.S.

Timing in the U.S.

For those in the United States, the Snow Moon will officially reach its peak at 9:31 PM EST (6:31 PM PST) on February 12, 2025. This moment occurs when the moon is directly opposite the Sun, and the Earth is between the two. The moon will appear as a perfect circle, fully illuminated by sunlight.

Why It’s Called the "Snow Moon"

The Snow Moon gets its name from the abundance of snow that blankets much of the Northern Hemisphere during the month of February. Historically, it has been known as the Snow Moon because February is the time of year when snow is most likely to cover the landscape, creating a beautiful winter wonderland. This name is prevalent in Native American cultures, where different full moons throughout the year are given unique names based on seasonal changes.

What to Expect During the Snow Moon

• The Moon’s Path: On the night of February 12, the Snow Moon will rise just after sunset. It will be visible all night, reaching its peak in the early hours of the morning. Its bright, silvery glow will outshine many of the stars, making it a prime time for moon-gazing.

• Effects on Sky Visibility: During a full moon, the brightness of the moon can overshadow fainter stars, so only the brightest stars and planets will be visible. This can be a bit of a challenge for stargazers hoping to see distant stars, but the full moon's beauty will more than make up for it.

• Special Phenomena: Full moons are often associated with various cultural events and rituals. In some cultures, the Snow Moon is seen as a time for new beginnings, reflecting on the harshness of winter and the hope of spring. For those in colder regions, the Snow Moon is also a reminder of the power and beauty of nature’s cycles.

The Upcoming Full Moons in 2025

After the Snow Moon, here are the dates and names for the subsequent full moons of 2025:

• March 14: Worm Moon – This moon marks the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, with the earth beginning to thaw and worms becoming visible in the soil.

• April 12: Pink Moon – A name derived from the early pink flowers that bloom during this time.

• May 12: Flower Moon – Celebrating the abundance of flowers that bloom in May.

• June 11: Strawberry Moon – A full moon that coincides with the strawberry harvest season, particularly in North America.

Why You Should Look Up on February 12

The Snow Moon offers a wonderful opportunity for anyone who loves observing the night sky. Whether you're using a telescope or simply taking a walk outside, the beauty of the full moon is always a spectacular sight. Remember that full moons are perfect moments for reflection, making the Snow Moon a time to think about the year ahead and the changes that the new seasons will bring.