Singapore (ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES) – The Cold Moon, the last full moon of 2024, illuminated the night sky and captivated stargazers worldwide on December 15. In Singapore, the celestial event drew enthusiastic observers who shared stunning photos and observations on social media.
When and where to witness the Cold Moon
According to NASA, the Cold Moon appeared full for approximately three days, from the evening of December 13 through the morning of December 16, with its peak fullness on December 15. In Singapore, it rose in the east at 7:02 PM and set in the west at 6:35 AM on December 16, as reported by NationsGeo.
Why is it called the Cold Moon?
The Cold Moon gets its name from temperate regions where December’s freezing temperatures and snow dominate, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. Other names include the Long Night Moon, for December’s extended hours of darkness, and the Winter Maker Moon, marking the onset of the coldest months in northern climates.
This year’s Cold Moon was extraordinary due to its occurrence during a “major lunar standstill,” a rare phenomenon that happens every 18.6 years. During this event, the moon takes its highest path across the sky, making it visible for longer than other full moons, according to the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. Coinciding with the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the moon reached its northernmost position, adding to the spectacle.
Singaporeans capture the Cold Moon
In Singapore, members of the Cloudspotting and Skyspotting Singapore Facebook group shared early glimpses of the Cold Moon.
Ms. Pornchada Vanich photographed the moon shining brightly near Jupiter at 5:46 AM from her attic near Stevens Road, calling it a “beautiful sight.”
Ms. Juju Fong described the moon as “so bright and beautiful this morning,” sharing a glowing photo taken above a block of flats.
Ms. Caroline Mah posted a montage featuring the moon above palm fronds at 5:44 AM, captioned simply, “Beautiful full moon…”
For those seeking an elevated view, spots like Marina Barrage, East Coast Park, and the Southern Ridges provided panoramic vistas of the moonlit cityscape. Clear skies were the only prerequisite to enjoy this celestial show.
Global excitement on social media
The Cold Moon sparked global enthusiasm. In the United States, photographer Sherry Lynn shared mesmerising images of the moon rising above treetops on December 14. Similarly, Grand Canyon National Park posted a series of photos showing the moon rising above its iconic landscape, delayed by low clouds but no less breathtaking once it emerged.
Bonus celestial sights
According to Timeanddate.com, Jupiter and Mars were also visible alongside the Cold Moon in Singapore’s night sky, offering an added layer of wonder to the event. Clear skies allowed stargazers to witness this rare planetary alignment.
Looking ahead: The next full moon
The next full moon, the Wolf Moon, is set to light up the sky on January 13, 2025. Until then, the Cold Moon has provided a luminous and memorable farewell to 2024, marking the year’s final celestial spectacle.