Doha, Qatar – Residents of Qatar will have the opportunity to view a spectacular celestial event tomorrow, December 4, 2025, as the last supermoon of the year rises in the evening sky. The Qatar Calendar House (QCH) announced that this full moon will appear significantly larger and brighter than usual, offering a notable viewing experience for skywatchers. This phenomenon is due to the moon reaching both its full phase and its closest approach to Earth simultaneously.
The supermoon will be visible from approximately 4:01 PM local time on Thursday, December 4th, and remain observable until 6:05 AM on Friday, December 5th, according to the QCH. Observers can expect the moon to appear about 14% larger and 30% brighter than an average full moon, making it a particularly striking sight. This event follows a previous supermoon observed in Qatar last November.
Understanding the Supermoon Phenomenon
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s perigee – the point in its orbit when it is closest to Earth. The moon’s orbit isn’t a perfect circle; it’s an ellipse. This means the distance between the Earth and the moon varies throughout the month.
According to NASA, the average distance between the Earth and the moon is 238,900 miles (384,400 kilometers). During perigee, the moon can be as close as 225,623 miles (363,104 kilometers), while at its farthest point (apogee) it can be 252,088 miles (405,696 kilometers) away. This difference in distance contributes to the apparent size and brightness increase during a supermoon.
Orbital Mechanics and Visibility
The varying distance is a result of the gravitational influences of the Earth, moon, and sun. It’s important to note that while the difference in size and brightness is measurable, it can be subtle and not always readily noticeable to the casual observer. However, the impact is usually visible when compared to a full moon at apogee.
The QCH explained that the actual distance during this December supermoon will be around 356,000 kilometers. This is a key factor in determining its enhanced appearance.
The timing of the full moon and perigee doesn’t always align perfectly. A true “supermoon” requires a close proximity, and some full moons at perigee are more pronounced than others. The term has gained popularity in recent years, often used to describe any full moon that appears slightly larger than average.
Beyond the visual spectacle, supermoons can have a minor effect on Earth’s tides. The combined gravitational pull of the sun and a closer full moon results in slightly higher high tides and lower low tides, known as perigean spring tides. However, these tidal variations are typically not dramatic and are influenced by other factors like coastal geography. You can learn more about lunar cycles and tides at NASA’s Lunar Phase page.
Astronomers emphasize that observing the moon with the naked eye is the best way to appreciate the supermoon, but telescopes or binoculars can enhance the view of lunar details like craters and mountains. There are many resources available online to help identify lunar features, such as those provided by the Sky & Telescope magazine.
Looking ahead, the frequency of supermoons varies. While several can occur within a single year, they are not evenly distributed. The next supermoon event is expected in January 2026, though precise details regarding its size and brightness will depend on the moon’s exact orbital position. Observing conditions will also be crucial, with clear skies being essential for optimal viewing. Further information will be released by the Qatar Calendar House as the January 2026 event approaches.
