Skywatchers are in for a treat as the highly anticipated Beaver Moon will grace the skies on November 15, beginning at 4:29 p.m. EST. This particular full moon holds special significance as it will mark the final Supermoon of 2024, providing a stunning display as it appears larger and brighter than typical full moons.
The term “supermoon,” first introduced in 1979, describes the phenomenon that occurs when a full moon aligns with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth. The Moon does not follow a perfect circular orbit; instead, it travels in an elliptical path, bringing it nearer to and farther from Earth during its lunar cycle.
On average, the farthest point in this elliptical orbit, known as the apogee, is about 253,000 miles from Earth, while perigee, its closest point, measures approximately 226,000 miles away. Although full moons can appear anywhere along this elliptical track, they take on greater size and brightness when they coincide with perigee, earning them the title of supermoons.
While some may think supermoons are rare, NASA research scientist Dennis Gallagher points out that they are a regular occurrence. “The Moon’s orbit takes it around the Earth about once every 27 and one-third days,” Gallagher explained, noting that perigee approaches happen three to four times a year due to the dynamics of the Earth-Moon-Sun system.
The full moon in November is commonly referred to as the Beaver Moon, a name steeped in history and tradition. There are various origins attributed to this name, stemming from Native American and European folklore. One explanation is that November was the time when beavers prepared for winter by reinforcing their dams and gathering food. Additionally, hunters would catch beavers during this period for their warm pelts.
Interestingly, beavers also share a unique link to NASA. The space agency is involved in the Beaver Rewilding Project in Idaho, a program funded through its Ecological Conservation Program. This initiative leverages NASA’s Earth-observing satellites, such as Landsat and Sentinel, to monitor and assess the ecological impacts of beavers on their environments. The data collected allows researchers at Boise State University and Utah State University to observe how landscapes transform when beavers build their dams, enhancing the understanding of water retention, habitat creation, and landscape resilience to drought and fire.
As you prepare to catch a glimpse of this year’s last supermoon, remember the fascinating connection between beavers and space and the critical role they play in sustaining our ecosystems.
Enjoy this celestial event, knowing it reflects a unique blend of nature and science at work!