November 2024 heralds the appearance of the Beaver Moon, the fourth and final supermoon of the year, set to illuminate the night sky on November 15. This full moon is not only a beautiful sight but also a reminder of nature’s cycles as it coincides with the time when beavers begin constructing their dams in preparation for winter, a tradition that dates back to earlier times.
This month also presents a fantastic opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to observe Jupiter, which is prominently visible in the Northern Hemisphere, shining brighter than it has in nearly ten years. November is primed for stargazing, with the potential for viewing shooting stars from the Taurids and Leonids meteor showers occurring around the weekend of November 16 and 17, displaying about 10-15 meteors per hour after midnight. Spectators may be lucky enough to see both trains and smoke trails left behind by these celestial phenomena.
The significance of the Beaver Moon is not only rooted in its association with beavers but also in various indigenous cultures. The Cheyenne people refer to it as the “Deer Rutting Moon,” while the Choctaw name it the “Panther Moon.” Other cultures recognize it with names that resonate with the seasonal changes, such as the “Fledgling Hawk Moon” and “Turkey Moon.”
Peak illumination of the Beaver Moon will occur on November 15 at 2:29 p.m. MT (4:29 p.m. EST), although it will appear full and bright on the preceding Thursday and following Saturday, making it accessible for evening watchers.
Looking forward, the next full moon, known as the Cold Moon, will rise on December 15, marking a transition as winter approaches.
This month promises not just wonderful views of the night sky but also a sense of connection to nature’s rhythms. Stargazers and nature lovers can take advantage of this opportunity to appreciate the beauty of our universe during this season of change.