Stargazers mark your calendars! The final supermoon of the year, known as the Beaver Moon, is set to fill the night sky on November 15, 2024. This lunar event is particularly exciting as it promises to be larger and more luminous than usual, giving everyone the chance to catch one last glimpse of this celestial phenomenon before the year ends.
The Beaver Moon, the fourth supermoon of 2024, is also part of the consecutive series following the Sturgeon, Harvest, and Hunter moons. Each of these moons holds significance rooted deeply in tradition and folklore. The name 'Beaver Moon' is thought to have originated from Native American tribes who used the bright moonlight to track beavers preparing for the winter by constructing their dams. This time of year marks when these industrious creatures begin their seasonal preparations for the cold months.
But what makes this moon even more intriguing? It's expected to reach its peak illumination at 4:29 PM EST, making it important to plan your moon-viewing accordingly. While those on the Eastern time might catch the full effect, anyone outside this zone will still benefit from the bright light and clear round shape throughout the evening. So, keep your eyes peeled! The Beaver Moon will grace the eastern horizon as the sun sets, and it will scale the sky by midnight before eventually making its way westward come dawn.
The Beaver Moon also goes by several other names, such as the Digging Moon, highlighting the behavior of animals as they search for food before winter. It is sometimes referred to as the Deer Rutting Moon, as it corresponds with the time when deer are seeking mates. These various names reflect the rich cultural history associated with this time of year, giving each moon phase its unique narrative.
Besides its cultural significance, the Beaver Moon presents excellent conditions for viewing. If you look up on November 15, expect to see the moon glowing approximately 15 percent brighter than usual. This phenomenal brightness arises from the supermoon phenomenon itself. For those wondering, supermoons occur when the moon is full at the same time it's at perigee—the point at which it is closest to Earth. This Beaver Supermoon will be around 224,854 miles away from us, just shy of the Hunter's Supermoon from the previous month, which was the closest of 2024.
Wishing to capture this moment? It’s advised to watch for the moon as it rises over the horizon, creating the illusion of being larger than life, famously known as the moon illusion. Enthusiasts with telescopes may enjoy clear views of its craters and lunar surface as the moon is exceptionally bright. Still, for those without telescopes, the ambient glow should suffice to enjoy its beauty.
If you’re curious about the diverse history of lunar naming, the Beaver Moon’s title has ties to various cultures and traditions. For example, the Anishinaabe tribes referred to it as the Freezing Moon, correlatively aligning with its occurrence during chilly November. Meanwhile, the Cree and Assiniboine named it the Frost Moon, correlatively embracing the same icy theme. The Algonquin culture identified this moon as the Whitefish Moon, referencing the fish’s spawning period coinciding with this lunar phase.
But the Beaver Moon isn’t just another pretty face; its appearances tell stories ranging from wildlife behavior to seasonal changes. The Pleiades star cluster will pass behind the Beaver Supermoon early on November 16, showcasing its beauty even more. This cluster often highlights the night sky, and though the Beaver Moon's brightness may overshadow its six most prominent stars, the sight promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
For those eager for more lunar events, it’s worth noting the time frame we’re working within. Following the Beaver Moon, the next full moon won’t occur until January 2025. Hence, this is likely the last chance for skywatchers to enjoy this delightful lunar showcase for quite some time. Get ready to marvel at the magnificence of the Beaver Moon this November!
While supermoons don’t occur on rigid schedules, they typically happen within three to four consecutive months—adding to their rarity. This year, aficionados have been treated to several supermoon spectacles, with August's Blue Supermoon marking the summer's peak. The gravitational pull from these massive lunar bodies also influences tidal behavior on Earth, creating heightened tides.
So, grab your friends, family, or even your telescope and get prepared for some breathtaking views. Whether you're gazing up solo or hosting a moondance party, the final supermoon of 2024 is not to be missed!
