This November features the Beaver Moon, marking the fourth and final supermoon of 2024. Set to grace the night sky on November 15, it offers a marvelous sight for stargazers and moon enthusiasts alike.
In addition to the Beaver Moon, November is an excellent month for telescope users to catch a glimpse of Jupiter, which is particularly prominent in the Northern Hemisphere. Observers are treated to one of the best views of the planet in nearly a decade, as reported in this month’s edition of Astronomy magazine.
During this time, you may also experience a celestial show with shooting stars, as the Taurids and the Leonids meteor showers peak around November 16 and 17. Expect to see around 10-15 meteors per hour after midnight—some may leave behind stunning trails of light, known as trains and smoke trails.
The origin of the name “Beaver Moon” comes from the time when beavers start building their dams in preparation for the winter months. This full moon reflects the transitional season as the first signs of snow begin to blanket parts of the northern United States and Canada, and trees lose their leaves in anticipation of winter.
Various cultures have their interpretations of this moon. The Cheyenne refer to it as the “Deer Rutting Moon,” while Indigenous groups in the Southeastern U.S. use the term “Panther Moon.” Other names include the “Fledgling Hawk Moon” used by the Hopi and the “Turkey Moon” among the Potawatomi. The Algonquin people referred to it as the “Moon of Much White Frost On Grass,” highlighting the onset of colder weather.
On November 15, peak illumination of the Beaver Moon occurs at 2:29 PM MT (4:29 PM EST), but it will appear full and bright on the nights of November 14 and 16 as well. The moon will rise in the east around sunset, reach its highest point around midnight, and set in the west close to sunrise.
Looking ahead, the final full moon of 2024, known as the Cold Moon, will take place on December 15. This name signifies the frigid temperatures often experienced during this time of year.
Overall, November promises to be a month filled with natural wonders, providing an opportunity for all to appreciate our universe. It encourages not only the enjoyment of stargazing but also serves as a reminder of the seasonal changes and the beauty that comes with each phase of our moon.