Overview
- The Moon hits perigee at about 362,312 kilometers, appearing larger and brighter than a typical full moon.
- Earth’s recent perihelion places it roughly 3.4% closer to the Sun than at aphelion, adding to the perceived brightness.
- The exact full phase occurs on January 3 at 11:03 CET, with the Moon looking striking on the surrounding nights.
- Germany’s weather service expects heavy cloud, snow showers and icy conditions over North Rhine-Westphalia, curbing visibility.
- The Quadrantid meteor shower peaks the same night, but moonlight and clouds are likely to suppress most sightings.