Park City’s winter sky: Cold Moon and Geminid Meteor Shower light up December nights

PARK CITY, Utah — As winter settles over the Wasatch Mountains, December’s full moon, aptly named the Cold Moon, will illuminate Park City’s snow-draped landscape on Dec. 15. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, this celestial event is more than a visual treat; it carries cultural significance and seasonal tradition.

The Cold Moon will reach peak illumination at 4:02 a.m. EST, offering early risers in Park City a serene opportunity to marvel at its brilliance against the wintry backdrop.

Cold Moon: A name rooted in tradition

The name “Cold Moon” originates from the Mohawk people and reflects the icy grip of December weather. As the Old Farmer’s Almanac notes, Native Americans, Colonial Americans, and other cultural groups historically named moons to mark time and the changing seasons.

For outdoor enthusiasts in Park City, the Cold Moon offers a chance to connect with the natural rhythms of winter. Also known as the Long Night Moon, a name rooted in Mohican tradition, this lunar event underscores its prominence during the longest nights of the year, which closely coincide with the winter solstice.

A tapestry of lunar names

The Old Farmer’s Almanac highlights a variety of names for December’s full moon, each reflecting unique cultural traditions. The Cree refer to it as the Drift Clearing Moon or Frost Exploding Trees Moon, while the Oglala call it the Moon of the Popping Trees. The Haida and Cherokee traditions name it the Snow Moon, while the Western Abenaki refer to it as the Winter Maker Moon, a nod to the season’s icy grip.

European traditions tied to Yuletide celebrations often reference the “Moon Before Yule,” heralding the return of sunlight following the solstice.

Geminid meteor shower: A celestial bonus

This weekend, the Geminid meteor shower will offer another celestial spectacle, peaking on the nights of Dec. 13 and 14. Known as one of the most vibrant meteor showers of the year, the Geminids are expected to produce up to 120 meteors per hour under optimal viewing conditions.

For stargazers in Park City, the meteor shower provides a dazzling complement to the full moon. The best viewing times are after 10 p.m. local time, with meteors radiating from the Gemini constellation. While the moonlight may slightly obscure visibility, brighter meteors should still be visible, particularly from darker areas away from city lights.

A moment to reflect and enjoy

Whether viewed from the slopes of Deer Valley, the trails of Round Valley, or a cozy porch overlooking Old Town, December’s full moon and the Geminid meteor shower promise unforgettable sights.

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