The first full moon of 2025 is just around the corner, and it's set to shine brightly on January 13, at 5:27 p.m. ET. Dubbed the Wolf Moon, this full moon is not only significant for its beauty but also for the celestial spectacle it promises, including the lunar occultation of Mars.
For about three days surrounding this date, the moon will appear full, starting Sunday evening through to Wednesday morning. According to NASA, this lunar event offers splendid stargazing opportunities with several planets visible alongside the moon as it rises on January 13.
The origins of the name "Wolf Moon" can be traced back to Native American traditions, reflecting the time of year when wolves were likely to be heard howling due to the harsh winter conditions. The Maine Farmer's Almanac published this nomenclature during the 1930s, linking the sound of wolves, active during this season, to the lunar phase. Other names for this full moon have included the "Frost Exploding Moon" and "Freeze Up Moon" among various Indigenous groups.
This year’s Wolf Moon brings with it something unusual: the red planet Mars will be in close proximity, making for dramatic viewing. Mars is approaching its closest point to Earth, set to occur just days after the full moon on January 15. On the evening of January 13, as the moon rises gradually from the east, Mars will also emerge below it, creating what astronomers call the "lunation"—when the moon will move to obscure Mars from our view.
The occultation will take place around 9:07 p.m. ET, with Mars disappearing from view for about one hour before reappearing at around 10:12 p.m. ET. Amateur astronomers and stargazers are advised to have binoculars or small telescopes on hand, as the glare from the significantly brighter moon can wash out the visibility of Mars.
For those unprepared, the moon's brightness makes it difficult to perceive the red planet, so good optical instruments are recommended. Without aid, one might miss the event entirely, as Mars will take approximately thirty seconds to fully vanish and reappear again from our vantage point.
This celestial event is not limited to just the United States; it is expected to be visible from Canada, Mexico, and even portions of western Africa, as noted by Space.com. Stargazers are encouraged to find dark skies away from city lights to fully appreciate the show.
Interestingly, January's Wolf Moon will also coincide with the visibility of four other planets: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. Venus will be the brightest, visible low on the southwestern horizon, with Jupiter appearing to the east; Mars will rise low on the eastern horizon, making it particularly bright as it nears its closest opposition to Earth.
The following nights will continue to offer unique viewing experiences, with Mars moving beneath the moon during the rise, before switching positions and remaining above it the night after.
The winter sky provides excellent opportunities for observing celestial bodies, particularly during January when night skies are still long and dark. This year, as Mars reaches opposition—when it is opposite the sun—on January 16, the planet's size will appear larger and brighter, perfect for viewing through telescopes.
The Wolf Moon does not only mark astronomical phenomena; culturally, it signifies the beginning of many traditions. The Hindu calendar recognizes it as Shakambhari Purnima, connecting it to the 44-day Prayag Kumbh Mela festival. This major pilgrimage is expected to attract up to 400 million devotees—an event run every 12 years at convergence sites of sacred rivers.
While the Wolf Moon is seen as a significant astronomical occurrence, it’s infused with various cultural meanings across different traditions. The Tamil and Kerala cultures celebrate with festivals corresponding with the full moon, creating connections to historical and seasonal observances.
For astronomy enthusiasts, or even casual observers, the upcoming Wolf Moon and Mars occultation provide not just visual spectacles, but also tie-ins to rich histories and stories from various cultures. It invites everyone, both young and old, to step outside and marvel at the night sky, whether utilizing telescopes or simply enjoying the moon’s glow.
The magical moments of January 13 are not to be missed; gearing up for the Wolf Moon can be as simple as planning to keep your eyes peeled to the sky. Watching the moon move against the backdrop of the stars, particularly with the eerie disappearance of Mars, promises to kick off the year of 2025 with awe-inspiring views of our universe!