Here's How to See the First Full Moon of the Year

Photo credit: Mike Fuss / EyeEm - Getty Images
Photo credit: Mike Fuss / EyeEm - Getty Images

From House Beautiful

Calling all skywatchers! If you missed out on the rare "planetary trio" last weekend, don't worry. The first full moon of the year is right around the corner. Keep your eyes on the skies at the end of January to catch the full Wolf Moon.

Why It's Called the Wolf Moon

As you may know, the names of full moons come from a variety of origins, including Native American and European sources. According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, the first full moon of the year is known as the Wolf Moon because January was a time when wolves were heard howling more often. Another traditional name for January's full moon is the Center Moon, which was used by the Assiniboine people to mark the middle of the winter, the Old Farmer's Almanac reports. Other names for the full moon in January (e.g. the Cold Moon and the Severe Moon) are associated with the frigid, harsh weather of the season.

How to See the Wolf Moon

The Wolf Moon will rise on Thursday, January 28, and reach peak illumination at 2:18 p.m. EST, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. But you won't be able to see it until it rises above the horizon, which will be around the time of sunset. So look up at around dusk. As always, try and find a spot away from light pollution to get the best glimpse of the full moon.

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