A supermoon is set to illuminate the night sky later this month, with weather experts predicting clear conditions ideal for viewing. The next full moon will occur on the evening of Friday, November 15, providing a special spectacle for those interested in celestial events.
Full moons occur every 29.5 days, resulting in roughly one full moon per month. However, due to the lunar cycle being a bit shorter than an actual month, the date of a full moon can vary. The November full moon, also known as the Beaver Moon, is named for the time of year when beavers are actively preparing for winter by building dams and gathering food, a detail noted by the Farmer’s Almanac. This term has its roots dating back to 1778.
Other Native American names for this full moon include the Frost Moon, Freezing Moon, Digging Moon, and Trading Moon, highlighting the different cultural perspectives on this monthly event. Additionally, some Celtic traditions refer to it as the Mourning Moon or the Darkest Depths Moon.
The Beaver Moon will be particularly noteworthy as it will be the last supermoon of 2024. Supermoons occur when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. During this phenomenon, the moon appears about 30% brighter and 14% larger than usual. While definitions for supermoons can vary between publications, the enhanced brightness and size make the event a visual treat.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for lunar enthusiasts, as it will feature three consecutive supermoons on October 7, November 5, and December 4. Meanwhile, the upcoming December full moon will be referred to as the “Cold Moon,” marking the arrival of colder weather, and is sometimes called the Christmas Moon.
For stargazers, the upcoming Beaver Moon offers a chance to witness a beautiful celestial event that ties us to ancient traditions and natural cycles, reminding us of the wonders of the universe and the changes of the seasons.