Beaver Moon Shines Bright: December's Final Supermoon Highlights Celestial Events of 2024
On Friday, November 15, 2024, sky gazers will have cause to look up, as they prepare for the last supermoon of the year—the Beaver Moon. This full moon coincides with its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and more luminous than your typical full moon. Traditionally, November's full moon got its name as the time when beavers begin to prepare for winter: they start building and repairing their dams, ensuring they have enough provisions stored for the cold months. This year's Beaver Moon is not just notable for its brightness and size; it marks the grand finale of 2024's supermoon trilogy, which started back in August.
Experts note the significance of supermoons for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. A supermoon occurs when the moon is full at the same time it reaches perigee, its closest proximity to Earth. During this event, the moon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than full moons at apogee, which is its farthest point from Earth.
While many see supermoons as mere celestial spectacles, they are steeped in tradition. November's Beaver Moon finds its roots among Native American and colonial American cultures. It symbolizes preparation and prudence as nature begins to hibernate. For example, January's full moon is associated with howling wolves, aptly named the “Wolf Moon,” reflecting the wintertime behavior of pack animals seeking to survive the harsh conditions.
Looking back at the seasons, these monthly moon names reveal how human beings once closely monitored and related to the cycles of nature. There's even February's “Snow Moon,” aptly named for the heavy snowfall prevalent during the month. Interest rekindles as seasons change; each moon has its own story worth telling.
While this month serves as the final curtain for 2024's supermoons, it is not the only event gracing the night sky during this period. After the Beaver Moon, stargazers can look forward to the Leonid meteor shower, which is expected to peak between November 16 and 18. Although the heightened brightness of the full moon may slightly overshadow the meteor shower, it still promises to add to the evening sky's allure.
Despite the moonlight possibly washing out some of the faint meteors, dedicated skywatchers will be on the lookout. The Leonids, known for their speed and frequency, could still yield beautiful shooting stars streaking across the heavens.
Mark your calendars as December approaches. Just as November signs off with the Beaver Moon, the month will close out with the “Cold Moon.” Scheduled for full illumination on December 15 at 3:01 am, it offers another opportunity for nighttime enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of our celestial neighbor.
Though the current Beaver Moon illuminates the November sky, planning for December's spectacle is well advised. Such lunar events remind us to gaze up and appreciate the remarkable dance of celestial bodies above.
