Cold Moon 2023: When is the last full moon of this year and how to watch it in India

financialexpress.com:

As 2023 comes to a close, skywatchers in India are gearing up for a breathtaking celestial event – the Cold Moon, also known as the longest and final full moon of the year. Set to grace the night sky on December 26, the Cold Moon derives its name from Native American and European traditions, signifying the peak of winter’s chill.

This lunar spectacle promises to captivate observers as the moon becomes an impressive 99.5 percent visible, illuminating the darkness with its radiant glow. Referred to as the Long Night Moon, the Cold Moon will be at its fullest on December 27, visible at 6:03 am IST. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon could appear completely round to the naked eye as early as Sunday.

For skygazers and space enthusiasts in India, the Cold Moon will present itself in all its glory from the night of December 26, casting its luminous beams until the evening of December 27. While the prime time to witness the fullness of the moon is during the early morning hours, the spectacle promises to be captivating throughout the night.

To optimize the viewing experience, skywatchers are advised to seek a location with an unobstructed view of the horizon. The Cold Moon will rise in the east, making it visible from various vantage points with clear skies. Additionally, identifying Capella in the constellation Auriga and Betelgeuse in Orion provides a helpful reference, as the full moon shines between these two bright stars in the night sky.

For those equipped with binoculars, the Cold Moon presents an ideal opportunity for testing them out during its three successive evenings rising from December 25 to the 27. As the year concludes, the Cold Moon invites everyone to marvel at the celestial beauty gracing the