Skywatchers will have a final opportunity this year to witness a supermoon on February 6, 2025, as the Moon reaches perigee-its closest point to Earth in its orbit. The phenomenon, where the Moon appears larger and brighter, has already been observed twice this year on october 7 and November 5 . While not a formally defined scientific term, the “supermoon” continues to draw public fascination with lunar events and inspire both amateur and professional astronomy enthusiasts.
Skywatchers will have one last opportunity in 2025 to observe a supermoon on Thursday, February 6, as the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual. This week, the natural satellite will be just 357,000 kilometers from our planet.
No special equipment is needed to view the supermoon, though locations with minimal light pollution will offer the clearest views. A clear sky is also ideal for observation.
Josina Oliveira do Nascimento, manager of the Communication and Popularization Division of Science (DICOP) at the National Observatory, says that the best time to observe the supermoon is approximately one hour after sunset or before sunrise. “At these times, the satellite is near the horizon, which gives the sensation that it is larger, but is already free from phenomena that occur in that region,” she explained.
It’s important to note that “supermoon” isn’t a formal scientific term. The term was first used in 1979 by Richard Nolle to describe a full moon occurring during perigee—when the satellite is closest to Earth in its orbit—or within 90% of that distance. However, the Observatory notes that the 90% threshold wasn’t based on scientific criteria.
This year has already featured two supermoons. The first occurred on October 7, when the Moon was 361,000 kilometers from Earth; the second, on November 5, brought the Moon to a distance of 356,000 kilometers according to reports.
The phenomenon offers a compelling reminder of the dynamic relationship between Earth and its celestial neighbor, and continues to capture public interest in space observation and astronomy. These closer approaches are a natural part of the Moon’s elliptical orbit, and provide a visually striking event for amateur and professional astronomers alike.
