January's full Wolf Moon is arriving: What to know

Today, January 13, 2025, marks the arrival of the Wolf Moon, the first full moon of the year. According to NASA, the moon will appear full for a period of approximately three days, starting from Sunday evening until Wednesday morning. Its peak illumination occurred at 5:27 p.m. Eastern Time. As part of the January sky phenomena, stargazers can also enjoy visibility of five planets, including Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and Uranus, with special observations planned around Mars for this evening. The Wolf Moon has historical significance, often associated with indigenous names reflecting the harshness of winter. As people prepare to view this celestial event, they can anticipate beneficial conditions for stargazing. The visibility of multiple planets alongside the moon creates a special occasion for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike, elevating the excitement surrounding the lunar cycle in January. Moreover, the lunar events this month also coincide with a notable occurrence involving the planet Mars, which approaches its closest point to Earth days ahead of the full moon. Astronomers highlight that Mars will reach its brightest just after the Wolf Moon, drawing attention from stargazers wanting to capture the beauty of both the moon and the neighboring planet in the night sky. Lunar occultations, where the moon passes in front of Mars, will further enhance the experience for lucky observers in North America and parts of Africa. During this month, not only does the Wolf Moon offer stunning visuals, but it also serves as a reminder of the rhythms of nature and the celestial dance that takes place above us. As conditions align to maximize visibility, public interest in astronomy grows, encouraging people to learn more about the mysteries above and bringing them together in shared experiences of wonder and exploration.