November 2024 Full Moon: Beaver Moon is the last supermoon 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 peak illumination at 4:29 p.m. EST, is anticipated by moon enthusiasts as it marks the last supermoon. event of the year. Visible as dawn approaches in Jakarta, this celestial event follows October’s Hunter Moon and concludes a sequence of four consecutive supermoons observed throughout 2024, according to NASA.

What is the Beaver Moon?

November’s full moon is traditionally called the Beaver Moon, a term that originates from Native American lore 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 various regions, the November full moon is also known as the Frost Moon or Snow Moon, reflecting the colder weather conditions typically seen in North America at this time.

When to see the Beaver Moon

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

Other astronomical highlights this month

Besides the Beaver Moon, November brings other notable astronomical events. On November 16, Mercury will reach its greatest eastern elongation, making it ideal for evening viewing. Additionally, the Leonid meteor shower is expected to peak on November 17-18, providing another highlight for skywatchers. Uranus will also be visible, reaching its closest point to Earth on November 17, according to Seasky.org, giving viewers a brighter and more accessible viewing.

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