The second full moon of winter, known as the Snow Moon, will rise on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, illuminating evening skies as it ascends on the eastern horizon during dusk. Its spectacle will offer breathtaking blends of oranges and delicate reds as the moon emerges, enticing skywatchers to step outside and enjoy this natural wonder.
The Snow Moon reaches its peak at 5:41 p.m. EST, and for those positioned to catch the moment, this full moon will appear most beautiful just as it rises. Earlier sunset times—like 5:26 p.m. in New York and 5:33 p.m. in Los Angeles—mean viewers in eastern U.S. states will see the moon at its full luminance almost immediately upon rising.
For the best viewing experience, observers are encouraged to find elevated locations or east-facing beaches where the horizon is unobstructed, ensuring the clearest view of this stunning display. Binoculars might be handy for those wishing to catch more detail of the lunar surface, but naked eyes alone will provide ample enjoyment.
The Snow Moon is so nicknamed because February is typically the snowiest month across much of the United States, firmly setting its place within the agricultural and pastoral calendars of various cultures. The Old Farmer's Almanac elaborates, "February is typically the snowiest month in the U.S., which is why it's called the Snow Moon.” This lunar phenomenon offers not just aesthetic beauty but cultural insights as well, with many names attributed to it through the ages. Among them, the Oneida tribe refers to it as the “Midwinter Moon,” the Comanche call it “Sleet Moon,” and various Celtic traditions recognize it as the “Ice Moon.”
Interesting historical symbolism also remains with February’s full moon. Some tribes, like the Cherokee, identified this moon as the “Hungry Moon” or “Bone Moon,” highlighting the desperate conditions often faced during this bleak month when food supply was low. According to the Farmers' Almanac, the traditional cultural names reflect the harsh conditions experienced by communities long ago.
Despite its beauty, skywatchers will note this Snow Moon will not coincide with any total lunar eclipse. That event is expected to show its face with March's Worm Moon, which will also be accompanied by the first total lunar eclipse since 2022 on the night of March 13 or early hours of March 14. This unique winter occurrence brings excitement as lunar enthusiasts prepare for this next spectacular display, where the moon will turn deep shades of rusty-red, often referred to as the elusive Blood Moon.
NASA explains how lunar eclipses occur when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, causing the moon to pass through Earth’s shadow. During this event, sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere, creating the reddish hue due to Rayleigh scattering—the same effect giving us blue skies and red sunsets. The result is mesmerizing as the moon transitions through the darkest part of Earth's shadow, thought of as the umbra, creating stunning visuals for all who look up.
This week, as observers anticipate the Snow Moon's rise, they are reminded to enjoy nature's beauty with the backdrop of winter skies. With clear skies and eager eyes, enthusiasm fills the community of skywatchers. From February 11 through 13, the moon will look full, providing additional opportunities for stargazers to take it all in.
The excitement around the Snow Moon serves as both entertainment and a reminder of the celestial events impacting our world. With each full moon bringing its unique beauty and significance, skywatchers can mark their calendars and prepare for another stunning display on the horizon, hoping for clear skies during each lunar spectacle.
So gear up, pack some warm clothes, and head outside to be part of this seasonal celebration of nature's wonder—the Snow Moon will soon grace the night sky, promising views and memories worth cherishing.