The sky is going to be quite the show this weekend, as Canadians prepare for the Beaver Moon, which will occur on November 15th—the final supermoon of 2024. Shining brightly over cities like Toronto, Montreal, and all across the country, this event marks the culmination of four consecutive supermoons observed this year.
Supermoons, which have been the highlight of many nights since the first one appeared back in August, occur when the full moon closely aligns with its closest approach to Earth. Specifically, this phenomenon takes place when the moon is within 90% of its perigee. During this time, the lunar surface can appear larger and brighter, creating a stunning spectacle for skywatchers.
The Beaver Moon is not just famous for its luminosity but also bears historical significance. Traditionally, this name is derived from the activities of beavers preparing their lodges for winter. It’s said they collect enough food during November to survive the cold months, making the Beaver Moon not only visually appealing but symbolically relevant to nature enthusiasts.
On this Friday, expect the moon to reach its peak illumination at 4:29 PM EST. This timing means skywatchers should take their place outside shortly before, as conditions might vary across cities. For example, Toronto and Montreal are expected to have mostly clear skies, perfect for moon viewing, whereas Vancouver may experience cloudy conditions. If you’re located in Edmonton or Calgary, there might be moments of cloud cover to contend with.
The first of this year’s supermoons was filmed on August 19, with the so-called Blue Moon, often referred to as the Sturgeon Moon or Dog Moon. Following it were the Harvest Moon on September 17 and October's Hunter’s Moon, known for being particularly bright. Skywatchers have witnessed quite the lineup this fall, with many eager to catch one last glimpse before having to wait nearly a year for another.
So, why do supermoons appear visually different? While they aren’t technically bigger, they can appear larger and 30% brighter than when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth. The visual effect can be noticeable on clear nights. Just bear in mind, many of these differences may not be as apparent to the naked eye. Even though the phenomenon has made some folks curious about its brightness, often only seasoned observers can really tell the difference.
The Beaver Moon encapsulates more than just its glow; it links humanity with nature’s cycles. Several cultures celebrate this full moon with different names, each reflecting the natural world at this time of year. Among them, it’s also known as the Deer Rutting Moon or Frost Moon, which references the mating season for deer and the colder conditions setting in as winter approaches.
Astrologers and astronomers have taken note of these lunar events, with Richard Nolle coining the term "supermoon" back when it first came to public attention in 1979. His definition stuck, and now every supermoon captures imaginations and provides not only enjoyment for those gazing up at the night sky but also sparks discussions among enthusiast communities.
Looking forward, the next supermoon won’t rise until October 2025, which means November's Beaver Moon is truly the finale of this lunar spectacle for the year. If you haven’t had the chance to observe the previous supermoons, now is your last opportunity to experience this celestial event for quite some time. So, gather your friends, grab your cameras, and look up this Friday night. It’s bound to be quite the sight.
The Beaver Moon serves as not just another astronomical event but as a reminder of the connections between humanity and the natural rhythm of the Earth. Whether you're out there snapping pictures or quietly admiring the view, the last supermoon of the year is definitely not to be missed.
