In 2025, you’ll have the chance to see 12 full moons, including three supermoons and two lunar eclipses

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

From ancient civilizations marking seasons by the sun and moon to modern-day astronomers unlocking the universe’s secrets, our fascination with the cosmos remains undiminished. For many, these events are more than just scientific occurrences; they offer: a sense of wonder, connection to something larger than us, and a reminder of our place within the grand cosmic scheme.

Each full moon has a unique name that reflects its agricultural past, primarily due to the vital role these celestial events played in guiding ancient farming practices. Since many early societies relied heavily on agriculture for survival, they closely observed the natural world, including the lunar cycle. The names given to each full moon often describe: the seasonal changes, animal behaviors, or plant growth associated with that particular time of year. For example, the “Harvest Moon” signifies the time of year when crops are ready for gathering, while the “Flower and Strawberry Moon” indicates the optimal period for sowing seeds. These names served as valuable reminders for farmers, helping them plan their planting, harvesting, and other agricultural activities in accordance with the natural rhythms of the year.

While modern life is largely detached from the direct influence of the lunar cycle, its impact is still seen in modern day society. Farmers may still consider the moon’s phases when planting and harvesting crops, aligning their activities with perceived lunar influences on plant growth. Fishermen may observe the moon’s position to predict tides, impacting their fishing schedules. Additionally, the lunar cycle continues to hold cultural and spiritual significance for many, influencing celebrations, rituals, and personal practices such as meditation and self-reflection.

In 2025, you’ll have the chance to see 12 full moons, including three supermoons and two lunar eclipses. Besides the usual collection of full moons in 2025, there will also be three supermoons (when the moon’s monthly perigee, or closest point to Earth, coincides with its full phase) and two total lunar eclipses, the first since 2022.

• Monday, January 13^th: Wolf Moon (22:26 UTC/5:26 p.m. EST)
• Wednesday, February 12^th: Snow Moon (13:52 UTC/8:52 a.m. EST)
• Friday, March 14^th: Worm Moon (6:54 UTC/2:54 a.m. EDT) — also a total lunar eclipse
• Saturday, April 12^th: Pink Moon (0:22 UTC/8:22 p.m. EDT)
• Monday, May 12^th: Flower Moon (16:56 UTC/12:56 p.m. EDT)
• Wednesday, June 11^th: Strawberry Moon (7:45 UTC/3:45 a.m. EDT)
• Thursday, July 10^th: Buck Moon (20:39 UTC/4:39 p.m. EDT)
• Saturday, August 9^th: Sturgeon Moon (7:58 UTC/3:58 a.m. EDT)
• Sunday, September 7^th: Corn Moon (18:12 UTC/2:12 p.m. EDT) — also a total lunar eclipse
• Monday, October 6^th: Harvest Moon (3:50 UTC/11:50 p.m. EDT) — also a supermoon
• Wednesday, November 5^th: Beaver Moon (13:21 UTC/8:21 a.m. EST) — also a supermoon
• Thursday, December 4^th: Cold Moon (23:15 UTC/6:15 p.m. EST) — also a supermoon

The moon will be big news in late 2025, with NASA targeting September 2025 to launch its Artemis II mission. The first crewed Artemis mission to the moon since 1972 will send four astronauts on a 10-day mission to orbit and travel beyond the moon. The following mission, Artemis III, will ferry two astronauts to the lunar surface. That’s scheduled for September 2026.

The two lunar eclipses in 2025 will be hugely impressive events. The first, on March 13^th to 14^th, will be a total lunar eclipse, during which the full Worm Moon will drift through earth’s inner umbral shadow and turn a reddish-orange color for 65 minutes from 2:26 to 3:31 a.m. EDT, according to Timeanddate.com. It will be best seen from North and South America.

The second, on September 7^th to 8^th, will be another total lunar eclipse, during which the Harvest Moon will enter earth’s inner umbral shadow and turn a reddish-orange color for 82 minutes from 1:30 to 2:52 a.m. EDT, according to Timeanddate.com. It will be best seen from Asia and Australia.

So, mark your calendars, astronomy enthusiasts! 2025 promises a dazzling array of celestial events. Prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the universe as we embark on this celestial journey together.