First full moon of 2025: The Wolf Moon illuminates Switzerland today

Tonight it is particularly worth taking a look at the sky. On January 13th, the Wolf Moon lights up the night sky – an event that has captured the imagination for centuries. But where does the mystical name come from and what is behind it?

The Wolf Moon is the first full moon of the year and has its roots in ancient traditions. In Anglo-Saxon culture it was also known as the “Moon after Yule”, in reference to the winter solstice. However, the name Wolf Moon goes back to the “Maine Farmers’ Almanac,” which first adopted the names of the full moons from North American Native American traditions in the 1930s.

In January, the howling wolves were a reminder of the icy cold and the deprivation of winter.

It used to be believed that wolves howled at the moon. Today we know: Howling is not used to worship the celestial body, but rather to communicate within the pack. Wolves howl to reveal their position, coordinate hunting, mark territory or strengthen social bonds.

The cold, clear winter nights ensure that these sounds carry particularly far – a fascinating natural spectacle that has nothing to do with the full moon.

Anyone who catches a clear sky can admire the spectacle in all its glory. A tip: The view is particularly atmospheric when the moon is low on the horizon and is framed by trees or hills.

Surely there are talented photographers among you! Share your best shots of the Wolf Moon with us for the community to enjoy. Of course there is also a reward.

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