The third and final supermoon of 2025 will grace the night sky over Pakistan this week. The celestial spectacle is set for viewing on the evenings of December 4 and 5, according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest orbital approach to Earth, known as perigee. This proximity makes the Moon appear larger and brighter than a typical full moon. Suparco has provided specific details about this astronomical event. The supermoon will appear up to 7.9% larger in diameter and nearly 15% brighter than an average full moon.
At its peak, the Moon will be approximately 357,218 kilometres from Earth. The commission states the Moon will be 99.2% illuminated on the evening of December 4. It will reach its maximum illumination of 99.8% at 4:15 AM on December 5. Skywatchers across Pakistan will have an excellent opportunity to observe the phenomenon on both nights with clear viewing conditions.
How to see Thursday's full Cold Moon, the last supermoon of 2025 https://t.co/5V1X481DnA
— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) December 3, 2025This event marks the conclusion of the 2025 supermoon cycle. A previous supermoon was visible earlier this year on November 5. While another supermoon is expected in early January 2026, it will officially belong to the next year’s cycle and not be counted among the three supermoons of 2025.
Astronomy experts often note an intriguing visual effect associated with supermoons. When the supermoon rises near the horizon, it can appear extraordinarily large to the naked eye.
This dramatic appearance is due to a well-known optical illusion, not a change in the Moon’s actual size. The illusion has captivated observers and photographers for centuries, adding an extra layer of wonder to these already spectacular events. The supermoon will be visible to observers around the world, offering a breathtaking view for all who look up on these clear December nights.
