Catch the Beaver Moon on November 15, 2024: the last super moon of the year!

The last supermoon of 2024, known as the Beaver Moon, will appear on Friday, November 15. This full moon, which will reach maximum illumination at 4:29 PM EST, is anticipated by moon enthusiasts as it marks the last supermoon. event of the year. The celestial event, visible at dawn in Jakarta, follows October’s Hunter’s Moon and concludes a string of four consecutive supermoons observed in 2024, NASA said.

What is the Beaver Moon?

November’s full moon is traditionally called the Beaver Moon, a term that comes from Native American customs and was popularized by the Maine Farmer’s Almanac. This name is linked to the seasonal time when beavers prepare their dens for winter or were historically hunted to ensure a supply of warm furs. In several regions, November’s full moon is also known as the Frost Moon or Snow Moon, reflecting the colder weather patterns typically seen in North America during this time.

When should you see the Beaver Moon?

The Beaver Moon will appear in full view for viewers for three days, from the early hours of November 14th until just before sunrise on November 17th. This gives stargazers multiple opportunities to glimpse the bright, magnified moon, which will be slightly closer to Earth. than normal, increasing its size and brightness compared to typical full moons. This phenomenon occurs when the moon reaches its closest orbital point during a full phase, known as perigee, resulting in what is known as a supermoon.

Other astronomical highlights this month

In addition to the Beaver Moon, November brings other notable astronomical events. On November 16, Mercury reaches its greatest eastern elongation, making it ideal for evening observation. Additionally, the Leonid meteor shower is expected to peak from November 17 to 18, which will be a new high for sky watchers. According to Seasky.org, Uranus will also be visible and reach its closest point to Earth on November 17, giving viewers a clearer and more accessible view.

For those interested in astronomy, November 15 offers a special opportunity to observe this year’s last supermoon before the seasonal Cold Moon arrives in December.