This month marks the arrival of the Beaver Moon, the final full supermoon of 2024, which will grace the night sky on November 15. This particular full moon is special not just for its brightness but also for its cultural significance.
In November, stargazers will also have the opportunity to observe Jupiter, which is currently shining brighter than it has in a decade for observers in the Northern Hemisphere. This month promises an exciting sky-watching experience, with the potential for shooting stars from the Taurids and Leonids meteor showers peaking around November 16 and 17. After midnight, observers can expect to see roughly 10-15 meteors per hour, with some of these fireballs leaving behind mesmerizing smoke trails.
The Beaver Moon derives its name from the time of year when beavers are actively building their dams in preparation for winter’s arrival. This month signals a transition as many prepare for colder weather, and it often coincides with the first snowfall in parts of the northern United States and Canada, marking nature’s subtle shift as trees and shrubs shed their leaves.
Variations of names for November’s full moon highlight its communal significance across various cultures. For instance, the Cheyenne refer to it as the “Deer Rutting Moon,” while the Choctaw call it the “Panther Moon.” The Hopi recognize it as the “Fledgling Hawk Moon,” and the Potawatomi refer to it as the “Turkey Moon.” Algonquin and Assiniboine cultures refer to it as the “Moon of Much White Frost On Grass” and “Frost Moon,” respectively, emphasizing the cold weather theme this time of year.
While the peak illumination is set for November 15 at 2:29 p.m. MT and 4:29 p.m. EST, the moon will appear full and bright on the preceding and following nights, beginning its ascent in the east at sunset and setting in the west near sunrise.
Looking ahead, the next full moon in 2024 will be the Cold Moon, scheduled to peak on December 15. This moon is traditionally recognized for heralding the colder months ahead.
As we embrace the natural beauty of this lunar event, it serves as a reminder of the changing seasons and the cycles of nature, inspiring us to reflect and find joy in the simple wonders of the world around us.