The year 2024 is set to conclude with the enchanting view of the final supermoon, known as the Beaver Moon, gracing our skies on November 15. While Halloween may have passed, the lunar spectacle promises to be well worth the wait for stargazers and casual observers alike.
Scheduled to reach its peak brightness at 4:28 p.m. EST (21:28 UTC), the Beaver Moon is the fourth and final supermoon of the year, following August's Sturgeon Moon, September's Harvest Moon, and October's Hunter Moon. This celestial event is particularly special as it is expected to appear larger and brighter than ordinary full moons due to its proximity to Earth.
The Beaver Moon gets its name from Native American traditions, signifying the period when beavers prepare their lodges for the winter season. This naming convention reflects the cultural significance attributed to the lunar phases across various tribes and communities. Alternative names include the Frost Moon and the Snow Moon, both emphasizing the changing seasons as the northern hemisphere braces for colder weather.
For those curious about what exactly makes a moon super, it's all about its distance from Earth. A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the moon's perigee, the point at which it is closest to Earth. For the Beaver Moon, this distance is approximately 224,853 miles, which is about 7% larger and 15% brighter than the average full moon. Remarkably, this is the last chance to see such magnitude until November 5, 2025.
Viewing the Beaver Moon may be best at the time of moonrise. For many locations across North America, this will occur around 20 to 30 minutes after sunset—ideal timing for capturing stunning photographs as the moon ascends against the twilight backdrop. Though the full moon officially takes place mid-afternoon, it is most visually impactful during its rise, particularly when it is near the horizon, due to the optical illusion often referred to as the "moon illusion," which can make it appear larger. Enthusiasts are encouraged to find locations with minimal light pollution, such as parks or open fields, to fully appreciate the view.
The Beaver Moon will also be joined by the dazzling Pleiades star cluster, often referred to as the "Seven Sisters," which will be visible to the moon's lower left during its rise. Get ready to witness this spectacular cosmic pairing!
The excitement continues shortly after the Beaver Moon, as the Leonid meteor shower will reach its peak on November 18, with up to 10 meteors per hour. This timing is perfect for stargazers who want to enjoy multiple astronomical events consecutively. Observers are advised to find dark skies away from city lights to fully enjoy the sight of shooting stars alongside the prominent moon.
If you miss this supermoon, keep your calendar marked for future events. The next supermoon will not surface until October 7, 2025, promising dedicated moonwatchers plenty of time to plan their evenings beneath the stars.
So whether you're hoping to take breathtaking photos, marvel at the celestial beauty overhead, or simply enjoy the peaceful night, the Beaver Moon offers everyone something special. Grab your coat, grab your friends, and don’t forget your camera. After all, you won’t want to miss this extraordinary treat from the night sky!
