The first full moon of 2025, known as the Wolf Moon, illuminated the night sky on Monday, January 13, 2025. The moon rose at 19:00 UTC, accompanied by a special celestial guest—Mars. Positioned just aside from the moon, Mars enhanced the view, creating a breathtaking spectacle for skywatchers.
Many People shared some stunning images of the Wolf Moon across social media leaving the observers in awe.
The first full Moon of the year is known as the Wolf Moon. Can’t think of anything lovelier than its hazy beauty to celebrate my new telescope, which I just finished assembling. (A sprightly portable Orion StarBlast II 4.5 equatorial reflector, for the curious.) pic.twitter.com/ZWjjWKGKzO
— Maria Popova (@themarginalian) January 10, 2020
Why Do We Call It the Wolf Moon?
There are approximately 13 full moons each year, and each one has a distinct name rooted in tradition and folklore. The January full moon is called the Wolf Moon, a name popularized by the Old Farmers’ Almanac. This name originates from the idea that during January’s long, cold, and nights, wolves howl loudly, making their presence known.
Is the Wolf Moon Rare?
The Wolf Moon is not rare, as it occurs annually every January. However, it is a special event for those who enjoy observing the night sky since it only appears once a year.
How to Photograph a Full Moon?
Capturing the full moon, especially during a unique event like the Wolf Moon accompanied by Mars, can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you take stunning photos:
- Use a Tripod: A steady camera is crucial for photographing the moon. Use a tripod to minimize blur caused by shaky hands.
- Choose the Right Lens: A telephoto lens (200mm or more) is ideal for capturing detailed shots of the moon.
- Adjust Camera Settings: ISO: Keep it low (100-200) to avoid grainy images. Aperture: Use a narrow aperture (f/8 to f/11) for sharp focus. Shutter Speed: Start with 1/125 and adjust based on the brightness.
- Use Manual Focus: Auto-focus may struggle with the moon’s brightness. Switch to manual focus and adjust for sharp details.
- Timing is Key: Photograph the moon just after it rises or before it sets. At these times, it appears larger and has a warm, golden hue due to its position near the horizon.
- Include Foreground Elements: To add context and scale, include elements like trees, mountains, or buildings in your frame.
- Edit Your Photos: Post-processing can enhance your moon shots. Adjust the contrast, sharpness, and color balance to bring out the moon’s details. Refer to our Astrophotography guide for more information.
Bonus Tip: Capturing the Moon and Mars Together
When photographing the moon with Mars, a wider lens can capture both celestial objects in one frame. Use a smartphone app or a star-tracking app to locate Mars and frame your shot accordingly.
