This month, skywatchers are treated to the Beaver Moon, the final full supermoon of 2024, set to appear on November 15. This celestial event marks an excellent opportunity for stargazers, as November also gives enthusiasts a chance to see Jupiter shining brightly in the night sky, particularly favorable for North Hemisphere observers—an occurrence not seen in nearly a decade according to Astronomy’s November magazine.
In addition, there will be a chance to witness shooting stars from both the Taurids and Leonids meteor showers around the weekend of November 16 and 17, offering a spectacle of about 10-15 meteors per hour after midnight. These meteors are expected to create captivating trails, either as bright streaks or smoke trails across the sky.
The Beaver Moon receives its name as it coincides with the time of year when beavers are busy constructing their dams ahead of winter’s onset. It’s a poignant reminder of nature preparing for the colder months, as many regions may begin to see their first snowfall, while trees lose their leaves for the season.
Various cultures have attributed different names to the November full moon. For example, the Cheyenne people refer to it as the “Deer Rutting Moon,” while the Choctaw people in the Southeast call it the “Panther Moon.” Other notable names include the “Fledgling Hawk Moon” by the Hopi and the “Turkey Moon” by the Potawatomi. The Algonquin also have a unifying name that reflects the winter weather, dubbing it the “Moon of Much White Frost On Grass.”
The peak illumination for the Beaver Moon will occur on Friday, November 15, at 2:29 PM MT and 4:29 PM EST. Nevertheless, avid moon watchers can expect the moon to appear bright and full on Thursday, November 14, and Saturday, November 16, as it rises in the east around sunset.
Looking ahead, the next full moon in 2024 is the Cold Moon, which will peak on December 15, a fitting name as it signifies the arrival of colder temperatures.
As nature transitions into winter, events like the Beaver Moon and meteor showers not only remind us of the wonders of the universe but also foster a sense of community and connection among those who take the time to appreciate these celestial phenomena. It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to gather outdoors and witness the beauty of the night sky.