Snow Moon to Light Up the Sky Tomorrow Find Out Why It's Called That

Arab Weather - Every year, many astronomical phenomena adorn the sky, some of which we can see with the naked eye, and some of which are monitored by explorers and astronomers through special devices, and they give us the opportunity through a live broadcast to watch them with you, but via screens. In all cases, these phenomena are of great importance, whether at the level of science or for amateurs who observe them.

One of these phenomena expected to occur this year is the Snow Moon, which is known by this name due to the heavy snowfall that usually occurs during this time of year.

In the following report, we review with you the most important information and exciting facts about the snow moon phenomenon, in addition to its date, how to see it in the best way, and why it is an astronomical phenomenon that is crushing to watch, and should not be missed.

What is the snow moon phenomenon?

The name Snow Moon or Snow Moon originates from an old American tradition, as February is usually the snowiest month in the United States. Therefore, the ancestors associated this beautiful celestial phenomenon with the harsh snow season.

The February full moon has other names, such as the “Hunger Moon,” because the harsh weather in this month made it difficult to obtain food in the past, and the “Storm Moon,” because of the severe storms that often hit northern regions at this time of year.

Interestingly, this year's Snow Moon will occur in the constellation Leo, adding an extra touch of magic to this astronomical phenomenon.

Snow Moon Phenomenon Date

In mid-February, astronomy enthusiasts will be treated to a wonderful celestial event, as the second full moon of the year will appear in the night sky. This moon is called the “Snow Moon.”

The full moon will reach its peak on Wednesday, February 12, when it will appear completely illuminated by sunlight. This happens when the moon is on the exact opposite side of the sun from Earth.

Normally, when the Sun, Earth, and Moon line up in a straight line, a lunar eclipse occurs. However, the Moon's orbit around Earth is slightly tilted, preventing a perfect alignment of the three celestial bodies. Therefore, February will not see a lunar eclipse.

How to watch the snow moon phenomenon?

The full moon can be viewed on the evenings before and after its peak, on February 11 and 13. The moon will rise above the eastern horizon as the sun sets, and will reach its highest point in the sky at midnight.

The full moon will appear at its best when it rises over the eastern horizon just after sunset. Therefore, it is advisable to wait until sunset and then head to an open area away from city lights to enjoy this wonderful celestial event.

For example: In New York, sunset will be at 5:26 p.m. ET, while moonrise will be at 5:41 p.m. ET. In Los Angeles, sunset will be at 5:33 p.m. PT, and moonrise will be at 5:57 p.m. PT.

From the UK, the Snow Moon will rise on February 12, 2025, in the east-northeast at around 17:07 UTC.

Snow Moon Information

This is a great opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of the full moon in the night sky. You can enjoy watching it in places far from city lights, where the vision will be clearer. In the following lines, we will review with you the facts about the snow moon phenomenon.

It is called this because the full moon coincides with heavy snowfall in many areas, especially in North America and Europe.

The February full moon is the scientific and astronomical name for the full moon that appears in February.

Importance of Snow Moon

The full moon affects the tides, with the tide being noticeably high during this period.

The Snow Moon holds cultural significance for many peoples, as it is associated with cold weather and snow, and is considered a good time for winter celebrations and rituals.

If you can see a bright star directly below the snow moon, it's the star Heart of Leo, which is the lower part of the sky's famous sickle of stars.

The Snow Moon can be easily seen in the sky at the full moon in February, appearing as a full, bright circle.

The snow moon can coincide with some other astronomical phenomena, such as the conjunction of the moon with the planet Mars or with some other stars and planets.

In some years, a snow moon can coincide with the moon reaching its closest point to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and brighter, known as a "supermoon."

There are beliefs and superstitions among people about the snow moon, as some believe that the snow moon brings with it a special energy that affects people's feelings and behavior.

A snow moon often appears with a glowing ring or halo around the moon. This is caused by bright moonlight streaming through clouds, causing halos and other weather phenomena.

Finally, we can confirm that the Snow Moon is the full moon that occurs in February every year, but what distinguishes it this year is that it will be closer, and it appears clearly in a way that only occurs every 10 years or so. This moon is known by this name because its appearance coincides with the peak of snowfall in many areas in the Northern Hemisphere.

The article was published on Raaij website.