What is the wolf moon? 2025’s 1st full moon, plus other rare celestial wonders

As 2025 begins, so comes the first full moon of the year.

2025’s first full moon will be the last of four consecutive supermoons, according to NASA. But it’s a pretty eventful lunar phase.

The full moon has a lot going on, which would make anyone want to howl with delight, especially since this month’s moon is known as the “wolf” moon.

The full moon is called the wolf moon because of the idea that during January’s long, cold and dark nights, wolves make sure everyone can hear them.

And, while those wolves are howling, the moon will also cover Mars. But the red planet will literally have its moment in the sun and shine as brightly later in the week.

Mars will be hidden during an event known as the lunar occultation, which is rare, but occurs through Thursday.

Here’s what to know about the wolf moon and other space occurrences.

Mars in opposition: See why the Red Planet will appear closer and brighter

How did the wolf moon get its name?

The year’s first full moon is best known as the wolf moon since the howls of wolves were more likely to be heard during winter, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

But these names are cultural and have nothing to do with science, Caroline Simpson, an Astronomy professor and chairperson at Florida International University, told USA TODAY.

Thought to have been brought to North America by European settlers, the name may be a bit of a misnomer.

While wolves certainly howl, experts say there is no evidence that they’re doing so at the moon, or that its celestial phases have any bearing on wolf calls. Rather, because wolves are nocturnal animals, they are generally more active at night.

When will the moon be opposite the sun?

The moon was directly opposite the sun Monday at 5:27 p.m. ET, according to NASA. This is when the moon revealed its full dayside to Earth.

The moon will appear full for around three days afterward.

Wait, will Mars disappear?

Mars won’t become invisible, but it will be covered up by the moon after shining brightly.

“Mars is playing hide-and-seek with the moon,” Andrew Fazekas, the communications manager for Astronomers Without Borders, told USA TODAY.

The phenomenon is known as an occultation, which happens when one celestial object passes in front of another, according to NASA. So, while Mars won’t actually disappear, it will be hidden behind the moon. The occultation will happen at a…