Excitement is growing across Maryland and beyond as we prepare for the first full moon of 2025, known as the Wolf Moon, which will shine brightly on January 13 at 5:27 PM EST. This special full moon is not just a pretty sight; it comes with some fascinating events in the night sky that everyone should be on the lookout for.
What is the Wolf Moon?
The Wolf Moon, as it is called, has a beautiful and intriguing history. The name comes from the Old Farmer’s Almanac, which reflects the time when wolves are more likely to howl loudly during the chilly winter nights. While it might seem like the moon influences their howling, experts say these sounds are just a way for wolves to communicate with each other, especially when food is scarce, and they are out searching for meals.
When will the full Wolf Moon be visible?
The Wolf Moon will be at its brightest on January 13, but don’t worry if you can’t catch it then; it will still be visible for about three days. This means it will light up the sky from Sunday evening through Wednesday morning, making it a perfect time for families and friends to step outside and gaze at the moon. NASA suggests the best views will be from the eastern horizon around sunset, so make sure to find a cozy spot outside at that time!
Why is this moon special? A Conjunction with Mars!
What makes this Wolf Moon even more exciting is that on the same night, it will pass in front of Mars in a rare event called a lunar occultation. This means that for a brief moment, the moon will completely block our neighboring planet from view. This magical moment will take place across much of North America, so grab your binoculars or telescope for the best experience! Full visibility of this event will vary depending on your location in the country.
How did the Wolf Moon get its name?
As mentioned, the Wolf Moon gets its name because of the howling wolves heard during the winter months. However, many indigenous cultures have their own names for this full moon reflecting the season’s harsh conditions and transformations, calling it names like the Cold Moon or Freeze Up Moon. These connections to nature through names give us a peek into how people have observed and respected the changing seasons over the years.
Stargazing Highlights: Five Planets to See!
As if the Wolf Moon isn’t enough to get everyone excited about some stargazing, there will also be five planets shining brightly in the night sky alongside it: Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and Uranus. Venus will be the brightest, twinkling in the southwest, while Jupiter can be seen rising in the east. Mars, of course, will be just behind the Wolf Moon as it makes its appearance. Saturn is nearby, and if it’s dark enough, you might even spot Uranus!
A Chance to Spot a Comet!
January also brings with it a rare chance to see a comet known as C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), which has a long orbit of 160,000 years! This event adds another layer of excitement to our evening skies. To catch a glimpse of this comet, it’s best to have binoculars or a telescope handy, as it may appear faint without some help from the stars.
| Location | Time Zone | Mars Disappears | Mars Reappears |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington, DC | EST | 9:16 PM | 10:30 PM |
| New York | EST | 9:21 PM | 10:37 PM |
| Chicago | CST | 8:07 PM | 9:16 PM |
| Los Angeles | PST | 5:50 PM | 6:45 PM |
So, as January rolls in and the temperatures drop, look up into the sky to see the stunning Wolf Moon! Gather your family, maybe make some warm cocoa, and enjoy the wonders of space. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or just curious about what’s up there, it promises to be an enchanting experience that reminds us of the beautiful things in our universe.
