Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
Skywatchers in India are gearing up for the last celestial display of the year as the Cold Moon, the final full moon of 2023, is set to grace the night sky on December 27.
Derived from Native American and European traditions, the term "Cold Moon" aptly characterizes the chilly conditions of December as winter's grip tightens.
During this event, the Cold Moon will be an impressive 99.5% visible, giving spectators nearly full glow of the sunlight on the lunar surface.
The Cold Moon is expected to make its appearance on December 27 at 6:03 am IST.
To catch the best glimpse of the Cold Moon in India, enthusiasts are advised to choose locations with minimal light pollution and a clear eastern horizon. The moon will be perceptibly full from the night of December 26 until the evening of December 27.
While the precise moment of fullness occurs in the early morning, the Cold Moon will remain a splendid sight throughout the night, allowing for extended viewing opportunities.
This year's Cold Moon holds a unique distinction, rising higher in the night sky compared to other full moons of the year. This positioning offers enhanced visibility and observation opportunities.
The Cold Moon, also referred to as the longest night moon, aligns closely with the winter solstice, providing an extended period for sky gazers to enjoy its luminance during the long, cold nights.
Observers can anticipate the Cold Moon sharing the night sky with some of the season's brightest constellations. Prominent stars such as Betelgeuse in Orion and Capella in Auriga should be visible despite the moon's brilliance.
As 2023 draws to a close under the glow of the Cold Moon, this natural phenomenon holds historical significance, serving as a traditional marker for tracking the passage of months and seasons since ancient times.