As 2025 begins, the first full moon of the year is set to be the last of four consecutive supermoons according to NASA. This full moon, known as the “wolf” moon, has a lot going on. The name “wolf” moon comes from the idea that wolves are more likely to be heard howling during the long, cold, and dark nights of January. While this lunar phase occurs, Mars will be covered by the moon in a rare event called a lunar occultation, making the red planet momentarily hidden. The moon will be opposite the sun on Monday, revealing its full dayside to Earth and appearing full for around three days.
Although Mars won’t disappear during the occultation, it will be hidden behind the moon, providing a unique astronomical event for viewers. Conversely, Mars will be at its brightest on Thursday evening in opposition to the sun. Additionally, a comet, C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), discovered in April 2024 and on an orbit spanning 160,000 years, will be visible near the constellation Sagittarius. While initially too close to the sun to see, the comet will become visible later in the week, particularly for viewers in the Southern Hemisphere. Advanced astronomers using binoculars or telescopes may have a better chance of spotting the comet due to its proximity to the sun.
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