This year December’s full moon is on the 25th, Christmas. This hasn’t happened since 1977, which also happens to be the year that Start Wars A New Hope was released in theaters. Coincidence? I think not, nor do I care I can’t wait to see that movie. December’s full moon is known as the full cold moon or the full long nights moon and sometimes, the moon before yule. In December the cold of winter grips hard and the nights are their longest. The moon is above the horizon the longest during the month of December, contributing to the name Long Night Moon. The moon has a higher trajectory across the sky in December because it is opposite a low sun. Parents you can have some fun with the kids, the International Space Station will pass over on Thursday Dec. 24, at 6:33 PM and Friday Dec 25, 5:43 PM 3 min 27° … 27° above SW 10° above SSE. Tell them it is Santa’s sleigh. Wonder if we could get NASA to change the reflective color to red that night.
I think this year in particular is good timing for the Full Moon to occur on Christmas. Whether you say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, or whatever you prefer. This time of year is the one time humans usually come together and act more humane. Maybe we can continue that into the new year and beyond. We could certainly use more good will towards all and some peace on earth.
Fish On!!
Rich King