Calling all lunar enthusiasts!
The first full moon of 2023 will occur on Friday, January 6 at 5:08 p.m. CST, but won’t officially rise in San Antonio until 5:37 p.m. CST above the northeast horizon.
January’s full moon is typically called the Wolf Moon. It was given this name since this time of year is generally when wolves are active and can be heard howling on cold nights.
Since the new year, our awesome viewers have already noticed the moon getting brighter! Here are a few pictures that were sent in via KSAT Connect:
Photo sent in via KSAT Connect. Credit: SkyWatcherPicture sent in via KSAT Connect. Credit: nzielsdorf
A full moon takes place when the moon and the sun are on opposite sides of the Earth. The direction of sunlight then illuminates the side of the moon that faces the Earth with the moon sitting relatively high in the sky.
Gulf moisture is filtering back into the area today, which is why areas of fog and low-level cloud cover were noted this morning.
That cloud cover and fog will break up into Friday afternoon, leading way to more sunshine.
Mostly clear skies are in the forecast Friday evening, meaning we shouldn’t have issues weather-wise spotting the full moon, with temperatures making their way into the low 70s and upper 60s around dinnertime.
Clouds are expected to build back in overnight tonight with areas of fog, drizzle, and overall dampness expected Saturday morning.
Friday’s full moon will actually be in the constellation Gemini.
While the moon will be bright, Gemini’s two brightest stars, Castor and Pollux, will initially be just to its right. As the moon rises higher into the sky throughout the night, the stars can then be seen above it.