This month will witness a spectacular event as the next full moon, known as a supermoon, is set to rise on the night of Friday, November 15. Weather forecasts indicate ideal conditions for moonwatching, promising a captivating display for stargazers.
The lunar cycle, which lasts approximately 29.5 days, means full moons occur roughly once a month. However, due to the lunar cycle being slightly shorter than a month, the full moon tends to appear on varying dates each month.
Last month’s supermoon, referred to as the Hunter’s Moon, has a counterpart in November’s full moon, dubbed the Beaver Moon. This name reflects the time of year when beavers are most active in preparing for winter by building dams and stockpiling food, as detailed by the Farmer’s Almanac. The term “Beaver Moon” was first documented in 1778 and has various other Native American names including the Frost Moon (Cree and Assiniboine), Freezing Moon (Anishinaabe), Digging/Scratching Moon (Tlingit), and Mourning Moon (Celtic).
What elevates the significance of this November moon is that it is the last supermoon of 2024. Supermoons occur when a full moon aligns with its closest point to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee. As a result, the moon appears approximately 30% brighter and 14% larger than usual. NASA mentions that different publications may apply varying criteria to define supermoons, contributing to some discrepancies in their occurrences.
Looking ahead, stargazers can anticipate three consecutive supermoons in 2025, occurring on October 7, November 5, and December 4. Meanwhile, December’s full moon will be termed the Cold Moon, reflecting the chilly temperatures that characterize this season.
This upcoming celestial event not only offers an opportunity to connect with nature but also serves as a reminder of the beauty in the rhythm of our natural world. Embracing moments like these can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the cosmos and encourage communal stargazing experiences that can bring people together.
In summary, the November Beaver Moon not only promises a stunning visual treat but also carries rich cultural significance that ties us to our history and the cycles of nature, giving us hope and connection amidst the challenges we face.