On January 6, 2025, sky watchers across the United States will have their eyes glued to the night sky as the first full moon of the year, commonly known as the “wolf moon,” makes its appearance. This full moon is not just any regular event; it carries excitement as it joins forces with the bright planet Mars, creating a stunning cosmic ballet observable from backyards and city rooftops alike.
What is the wolf moon?
The wolf moon is the name given to the full moon that occurs in January. Traditionally, this name comes from stories shared by Native American tribes, who noted that this was the time of year when wolves were often heard howling outside the villages due to hunger. The name stuck, and it has become a beloved term that many use to describe this chilly moonlit night.
Mars in opposition: See why the Red Planet will appear closer and brighter
Mark your calendars for January 9, 2025! On this day, Mars will reach a special point in its orbit known as “opposition.” This means that Mars will be directly opposite the sun in the sky, making it look especially big and bright. With the wolf moon shining above, this period will give us some of the best views of the Red Planet we’ve had all year!
How did the wolf moon get its name?
The name “wolf moon” has fascinating roots in history. It originated from the concept that this full moon marked the time when wolves roamed in search of food during the harsh winter months. These stories were passed down through generations and remind us of how people have always looked to the sky for connection to nature and the passing of time.
When will the moon be opposite the sun?
The wolf moon will be at its fullest when it is exactly opposite the sun, which creates a bright and round appearance that fills the night sky with beauty. People can look forward to seeing the moon rise high on January 6, lighting up the landscape with its silvery glow for several nights. It’s an exciting time for amateur astronomers and nature lovers alike!
Wait, will Mars disappear?
Not at all! In fact, during this special event, Mars will be visible right next to the wolf moon. Although there is a well-known phenomenon called “lunar occultation,” which occurs when the moon passes in front of a planet, which in this case will happen briefly on January 6, Mars will not disappear completely. Observers might see it hidden for a short while, but it will pop back into view shortly after!
| Date | Event | Viewing Tips |
|---|---|---|
| January 6, 2025 | Wolf Moon Occultation of Mars | Use binoculars or a small telescope! |
| January 9, 2025 | Mars at Opposition | Best viewing at night after sunset. |
Mars reaches opposition
Let’s talk about Mars! When it reaches opposition, it’s the perfect time to spot the planet with the naked eye. Think of it as Mars’ grand performance. The night sky will be filled with its brilliant red color, easily distinguished from other stars. Sky watchers will have four days around the opposition date from January 12 to January 16 to catch a glimpse of Mars shining its brightest. This is truly a special event for all lovers of the night sky!
Comet spotting: A one-in-160,000-years chance for some
And there’s even more to look forward to! For those who are interested in spotting comets, the rare Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) might be around during January too. It has a ridiculously long orbit of about 160,000 years, which makes this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you have binoculars or a small telescope, you might just catch a glimpse of this celestial traveler. Keep in mind that anyone in the Southern Hemisphere will have the best view, but don’t worry; observers in the U.S. might still get lucky!
As the wolf moon rises and highlights this spectacular start to the year, prepare to be amazed by the sky’s wonders. Just remember to bring along some warm blankets, grab your binoculars, and set your sights on the sky – because the universe has a way of turning ordinary nights into extraordinary moments!
