December Night Sky

  The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave a lustre of midday to objects below, When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.    

 -'Twas the Night Before Christmas, Clement Clarke Moore      

 

December's full moon, illuminating the skies on December 26, 2023, holds special significance as it aligns with Christmas Day.  This celestial event is the first full moon following the winter solstice, enhancing its allure during this special and festive season.

12-11-19 Full Cold Moon

The full moon you will observe in the heavens this evening is called the Full Cold Moon.  It is characterized by the arc of its trajectory across the sky which allows it to appear above the horizon for a longer period of time. 

Because of its close association with the winter solstice - and the shortest of daylight hours - native people called this the Long Nights Moon.   My ancient European pagan ancestors called this the Moon Before Yule in recognition of the Yuletide festivities celebrating the return of the sun heralded by the winter solstice. 

 

To the casual observer the moon will appear full both tonight and Wednesday evening as well. 

Fingers crossed for clear, cold viewing tonight.