December Night Sky 2025: Major Moon Events & Planet Viewing Guide

December 2025 is shaping up to be one of the richest months for skywatchers. From a high-riding supermoon and active meteor showers to several bright planets at peak visibility, the year's final stretch brings a packed celestial schedule.

With long winter nights in the north and crisp summer skies in the south, observers from around the world will find plenty of reasons to look up throughout the month.

December 2025 Celestial Events Calendar

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Events in the moon during December 2025

This month, the lunar cycle is especially eventful.

• Full Moon: December 4
• Last Quarter: December 11
• New Moon: December 20
• First Quarter: December 27

The full moon on December 4, known as Cold Moon for the Northern Hemisphere, happens to be the last supermoon of the year. It stands unusually high for Northern Hemisphere observers due to a lunar standstill, which makes it the highest full moon until the early 2040s.

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For Southern Hemisphere viewers, it will sit low and take on an atmospheric tint. This full moon also grazes past the Pleiades, making for a great scene for cameras. Across North America, Europe and northern Africa, the Moon will actually pass in front of the cluster, offering a rare occultation.

Planets Visible in the Northern Hemisphere – December 2025

• Mercury rises before dawn, brightest around mid-month.
• Venus is tough to catch, as it fades into the Sun's glare.
• Mars sits low after sunset and remains challenging.
• Jupiter is dominating the night sky as it approaches its January opposition.
• Saturn shines in the early evening before sinking earlier each night.
• Uranus remains easily visible most of the night.
• Neptune continues steadily in the evening sky as it ends retrograde motion.

Planets Visible in the Southern Hemisphere – December 2025

• Mercury provides good morning views early in the month.
• Venus rises briefly at dawn and then disappears into sunlight.
• Mars stays faint and low, offering limited visibility.
• Jupiter really stands out in the night sky, shining brightly.
• Saturn appears at dusk and sets sooner as the month progresses.
• Uranus remains accessible under dark skies.
• Neptune does require a telescope, but is well-placed for evening observations.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general skywatching information. Viewing conditions depend on weather and location. Always observe safely and follow local guidelines.