January’s Wolf Moon to Peak Monday with Rare Planetary Alignment
The first full moon of 2025 will be visible for three days, coinciding with unique planetary sightings and global cultural celebrations.
- The Wolf Moon, January’s first full moon, will reach peak illumination at 5:27 p.m. ET on Monday, January 13, and appear full from Sunday evening through Wednesday morning.
- The name 'Wolf Moon' originates from Native American traditions, referencing the howling of wolves during harsh winter months, as popularized by the Maine Farmers' Almanac in the 1930s.
- Stargazers can also witness a 'planet parade' featuring Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and Uranus in the evening sky, with Venus being the brightest planet.
- This full moon aligns with cultural celebrations worldwide, including Shakambhari Purnima in India, the Mahakumbh Mela pilgrimage, and Duruthu Poya in Sri Lanka.
- NASA recommends viewing the moonrise near sunset for its largest appearance on the horizon and suggests binoculars or telescopes for enhanced viewing of the planets.