Cold Moon 2024: The last full moon of 2024, on December 15, was a spectacular cosmic event. For all those who missed to catch a glimpse of the rare astronomical wonder, don't be disappointed.
Take a look at the splendid shots of the cold moon, which show a glimpse of nature's wonders. Also known as a “major lunar standstill", the last full moon of this year was unique, as this phenomenon happens only once in 18.6 years.
Though known by different names in different cultures, December's full moon is famously called ‘Cold Moon’ or Oak Moon, which moved to its peak around 2:31 pm IST (4:00 am EST) on December 15, according to time and date.
In Old English, this phenomenon is known as Long Nights Moon while Anglo-Saxons called it the Moon before Yule in Anglo-Saxon. Drift Clearing Moon, Snow Moon and Winter Maker Moon are the other names given by Native American tribes.
According to Old Farmer's Almanac, Mohawk tribe coined the term cold moon and Mohicans called it the “long night moon,” in the wake of frigid conditions associated with it.
Notably, for the Northern Hemisphere, ‘Cold Moon’ is the longest night of the year. On this day, the lunar body takes the highest path along the top of the sky, making its visibility longer than that of other full moons. This full moon happens closest to the winter solstice.
The time for the Cold Moon vary by time zone and the specific times and dates are based on the local time. According to time and date, next ‘cold moon’ will take place on December 5 at 4:44 PM IST.
Netizens were excited after the pictures surfaced on social media, as one user stated, “Spectacular.” A second user commented, “Beautiful, no matter how many times you see it.” Another user remarked, “Real or fake.” While some called the sight “Beautiful” and “Magnificent”, others expressed awe.
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