The fourth and final supermoon of 2024 will reach full illumination on Friday, November 15, at 4:28 p.m. EST (21:28 UTC). However, the best time to witness this celestial event from North America will be on Saturday, November 16, when the moon rises in the east about 20 to 30 minutes after sunset.
What is the Beaver Moon?
November’s full moon is commonly referred to as the Beaver Moon, a name tied to the time of year when beavers in the northeastern U.S. build their winter dams. The full moon of November is also known as the Frost Moon and the Snow Moon, reflecting the seasonal shift toward colder temperatures in North America. In Native American culture, the Anishinaabeg people refer to the August moon as Baashkaakodin Giizis, meaning the “Freezing Moon,” symbolizing the approach of harsh winter conditions.
The Supermoon Phenomenon
This year’s Beaver Moon marks the final of four supermoons in 2024. Previous supermoons in 2024 included the Sturgeon Moon in August, the Harvest Moon in September, and the Hunter’s Moon in October. A supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns closely with the perigee, its closest point to Earth during its elliptical orbit. If the full moon is within 90% of perigee, it appears larger and brighter in the sky.
Best Time to View the Beaver Supermoon
While the Beaver Moon will officially reach full illumination at 4:28 p.m. EST on November 15, the best time to see it will be during moonrise on November 16, shortly after sunset. This is when the moon will appear most striking as it rises in the eastern sky.
Look for the Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, a sparkling open star cluster that will appear near the moon. On November 15, the Pleiades will be positioned to the lower left of the moon, while on November 16, it will shift to the upper right.
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Viewing Tips
You can view the Beaver Moon with the naked eye, but for a closer look at the lunar surface, consider using stargazing binoculars or a backyard telescope. As the moon rises, its glare will become intense, making direct observation more challenging. For the clearest views, try catching the moon just after it rises.
The Beaver Moon of 2024 will be a stunning spectacle, offering the final supermoon of the year. Whether you observe it on November 15 or 16, make sure to catch this magnificent event, and enjoy the view of the moon alongside the beautiful Pleiades star cluster.
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