Full Moon in January 2023

Written by Apple Updated Dec. 23, 2022

The first full moon in the year 2023 will occur early in January on Friday, January 6. It is called “Wolf Moon”. The full moon will rise at 18:08 (Eastern Time) on January 6. It will be visible for a duration of about 8 hours.

Full Moon January 2023
Full Moon January 2023

When to See the Full Moon in January 2023

January’s full moon occurs on Friday, January 6, 2023. It is approximately 400,780 km (249,033 miles) from Earth at 18:18 (Eastern Time) in Cancer.

January’s full moon will arise at 08:19 p.m. (Eastern Time), peak when it reaches its highest point in the sky at Cancer around midnight, and set around sunrise the next morning, being visible for about 8 hours.

Why Is It Called the Wolf Moon?

Traditionally, the full moon's name derives from Native American colonial and European cultures.

The full moon in January has often been called the Full Wolf Moon for centuries. January’s full moon is known as the Full Wolf Moon because wolves were more likely to be heard howling during cold winter nights around this time. Other names of January's full moon are Winter Moon and Ice Moon.

Astrological Meanings of the Full Moon in Cancer January 2023

The first full moon of 2023 takes place in the sign of Cancer on January 6. This full moon in the constellation of Cancer has the astrological meaning of devotion, loyalty, creativity, and compassion.

Cancer is the fourth astrological sign in the zodiac, spanning 90 - 120 degrees of the zodiac. It is one of the six negative signs ruled by the Moon.

The January full moon in Cancer is going to remind you to pay more attention to your feelings, or issues related to emotions. At this time, it is essential to reflect on your needs and desires more deeply and set boundaries with others. Remember what you deserve and act with purpose.

The Effects of the January's Full Moon on the Astrological Signs

The zodiac is classified into four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. Each element has three zodiac signs.

This January’s full moon is happening in Cancer (90 - 120° celestial longitude). Cancer is one of the three water signs, along with Scorpio and Pisces, and is compatible with the earth signs - Taurus and Virgo. So the January full moon in Cancer should favor those signs, especially Capricorn, as it is a cardinal sign, like Cancer.

Cultural and Religious Representation

The Moon has influenced human culture for thousands of years, and the full moon and new moon phases in particular. Festivals in many countries are related to the full moon phase, including Mid-Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival in China, Easter in the United States, and Navaratri in India.

In the past, it was believed that the moon caused many forms of mental illness and even could cause disasters. Many people believe that the moon is related to life phenomena. Many plausible claims are found in folklore, religion, astrology, literature and art, and modern film and television media.

When Is the Next Full Moon Day

The next full moon will occur on Sunday, February 5, 2023, the day of the Chinese Lantern Festival. It is called the Snow Moon because February is the snowiest month in many northern areas. Snowfalls are the heaviest at this time of the year.

Back to Moon Calendar.

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