When and where to see 2025’s final Supermoon — complete viewing guide

The last Supermoon of 2025 — the December “Cold Moon” — is set to close out a year of three consecutive supermoons. If you want a crisp, practical plan for seeing and photographing it, here’s everything you need: exact timing (in universal terms), where it will be visible, simple viewing and photo tips, and a quick note about tides and safety.

What is a Supermoon (and why it matters)

A Supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth (perigee). That closer distance makes the Moon appear slightly larger and brighter than a typical full moon — up to about 14% larger and 30% brighter in theory, though the difference is subtle to most viewers. The term is informal but useful for skywatchers.

When exactly is 2025’s final Supermoon?

The final Supermoon of 2025 (called the Cold Moon) is on Thursday, 4 December 2025. The Moon reaches its official full phase at 23:14 UTC (11:14 p.m. UTC) on Dec 4, 2025 — that is the astronomical moment when it’s exactly full and near perigee. This Supermoon is the third in a row for 2025 (October, November, December).

Quick local-time conversions (examples):
• New York (EST/UTC-5): Dec 4, 6:14 p.m. EST.
• London (GMT/UTC+0): Dec 4, 11:14 p.m. GMT.
• New Delhi (IST/UTC+5:30): Dec 5, 4:44 a.m. IST.
Always convert 23:14 UTC to your time zone (or use your phone’s moon-phase app) because local moonrise times and the best viewing window depend on where you are.

Where will the Supermoon be visible?

Short answer: everywhere — a full moon is visible from any place on Earth where the sky is dark and clear. But what changes by location is when the Moon rises and how high it climbs.

Best viewing regions and conditions

• Choose a location with a wide, clear horizon (coastal edges, hilltops, open fields, city parks). Lower horizon clutter makes moonrise shots dramatic.
• Dark-sky spots with little light pollution will let you appreciate surface shading and subtle brightness.
• If you’re in coastal areas, be mindful that high tides (king tides) can be slightly higher during perigee full moons. Plan shoreline photography with safety in mind.

Moonrise vs. peak full phase

The Moon can look most impressive to the eye right at moonrise because of the “moon illusion” (it looks bigger near the horizon). The astronomical full moment may occur hours before or after moonrise in your area — both are worth watching: moonrise for dramatic photos, the official full moment for scientific accuracy.

How to choose the exact spot and time (practical steps)

1. Find local moonrise/moonset: Use Timeanddate, Stellarium, or your phone’s astronomy app and enter your city — it will give exact moonrise times for Dec 4–5.
2. Scout a foreground: For striking photos, pick a landmark (tree, building, statue, coastline) to create scale and interest.
3. Arrive early: Get to your site 30–60 minutes before moonrise to set up and catch the color changes. (Bring a flashlight and warm clothing if it’s cold.)
4. Check the weather: Clear skies are essential; check local forecasts the evening before. Many news and science outlets will post updates for the event.

Photography tips for the Supermoon

• Use a tripod. Keeps shots sharp with longer focal lengths.
• Long focal length for close-ups. A 300mm+ lens compresses distance and shows lunar detail. For creative shots (landscape + moon), a moderate telephoto (100–200mm) often works best.
• Manual exposure. Start around ISO 100–200, aperture f/8, shutter 1/125–1/250 for the moon’s surface; bracket to be safe.
• Timing for color. For the warm orange moonrise look, shoot when the moon is near the horizon; for surface detail, shoot when it’s higher and the sky is darker.
• Composite option. If you want a large moon over a foreground that’s far away, consider shooting two frames (foreground at dusk and moon separately at high zoom) and blend them in editing.

Tides, safety and coastal planning

Perigee full moons can contribute to higher-than-normal tides (often called king tides or perigean spring tides). If you plan to watch the Supermoon from a shoreline, be cautious: tides may be higher and waves stronger, especially combined with stormy weather. Check local tide forecasts and coastal advisories before heading out. NOAA’s tidal guidance explains why perigee full moons raise tidal ranges.

FAQ: quick answers

Q: Will this Supermoon look dramatically bigger?
A: Not dramatically to most eyes — the size/brightness increase is real but subtle. It’s most striking at moonrise or when compared side-by-side with a moon at apogee.

Q: Can clouds ruin it?
A: Yes. Clouds are the biggest risk. Pick a second viewing location or watch a livestream if skies are cloudy. Many organizations livestream Supermoons.

Q: Is it safe to take homegrown “moon rituals” or celebrations?
A: Yes — enjoy it! Just be mindful of local rules in parks, keep noise and light low if you’re in natural areas, and avoid dangerous coastal spots during high tides.

Final checklist (night-before)

• Confirm local moonrise time and the full-phase UTC (23:14 UTC on Dec 4, 2025).
• Check weather and tide forecasts.
• Pack tripod, lens, warm layers, snacks, and a charged phone.
• Arrive early, pick a compositional foreground, and enjoy the show.

Also Read: Bharat Vandana Park Opens This December!