GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – The full moon, called the “snow moon,” lights the sky tonight, giving skywatchers a chance to spot a bright, round lunar disk framed by winter landscapes.
The name “snow moon” traditionally refers to the full moon in February. The name reflects winter conditions in parts of the Northern Hemisphere; similar traditional names from different cultures emphasize seasonal events throughout the year.
Skywatchers should look for the moon near the horizon when it appears larger because of the moon illusion. Earth’s shadow on the dark part of the moon and a faint glow known as earthshine can also be visible before and after the full moon.
For photography, use a tripod and a telephoto lens if you want a close-up. Set a low ISO to reduce noise, and experiment with shutter speeds to capture both the moon’s detail and any foreground elements. If you plan to include people or buildings, balance exposure so the moon is not overexposed.
Viewing tips: find a spot with a clear view of the horizon, avoid bright city lights when possible, and dress for winter temperatures. Binoculars will show surface features more clearly than the naked eye.
The snow moon is one of several traditional names for full moons. Different cultures and regions have their own names and folklore associated with full moons throughout the year.
If you share photos online, include the location and equipment used in captions so readers know how you captured the image. Enjoy the view and take care when traveling in winter conditions.
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