From huge meteor showers to the Cold Moon, the night sky this December will be a feast for the eyes.

Here are some things to look out for overhead this month.

The moon

Phases for November are as follows:

  • First quarter - November 30
  • Cold Moon - December 8; this full moon is named for the season in which temperatures drop.
  • Last quarter - December 16
  • New moon - December 23
  • First quarter - December 30

Geminids meteor shower

Active between December 4 and 20, this shower will peak on December 14 and 15.

This shower is associated with object 3200 Phaethon, making it one of the only major showers not originating from a comet.

There will be upwards of 150 meteors an hour, characterised by bright meteors with few trains.

Eastern Daily Press: This month's full moon is also known as the Cold MoonThis month's full moon is also known as the Cold Moon (Image: Laura Anne)

Ursids meteor shower

Active between December 17 and 26, this shower will peak on December 22 and 23.

This shower is associated with 8P/Tuttle with upwards of 10 meteors an hour.

The Crab Nebula

The Crab Nebula will be visible through the month near the constellation Taurus.

It is the result of a star exploding 6,500 light years away.

Winter Solstice

The winter solstice will occur on December 21.

While not something to spot in the sky, it is still an important date in the astronomical calendar and is when the South Pole reaches its southernmost position tilted toward the sun.

It marks the first day of winter in the northern hemisphere and the first day of summer in the southern hemisphere.