When astronomy fans look to the sky this week, they'll be treated to November's Beaver Full Moon, the last of four consecutive supermoons in 2024.
The 2024 series of supermoons began with a rare event in August supermoon blue moonAfter this month's Beaver Moon, there won't be another supermoon until late next year.
Why is the November full moon called the Beaver Moon?
The full moon of November is called the Beaver Moon, according to Old Farmer's AlmanacThis name was chosen because this is the time of year when otters begin to shelter in their dens after preparing food stores for the winter.
This month's full moon also has several other names that are associated with winter and animals preparing for the cold season. Other full names for the November full moon are Frost Moon, Freezing Moon, Digging Moon, Deer Rooting Moon, and Algonquin Whitefish Moon.
When will the November supermoon appear?
The full moon is expected to reach its peak on Friday, Nov. 15 at 4:29 p.m. EST, NASA said. The Old Farmer's Almanac gives specific details moonrise time For various zip codes across the US
According to NASA, about 96% of the near side of the moon will be illuminated by the Sun on Thursday. By Friday, 100% of the near side of the Moon will be illuminated. On Saturday, about 99% of it will be illuminated by the Sun and on Sunday, 96% of the Moon will be illuminated.
You won't need binoculars or a telescope to enjoy the spectacular view.
What makes a supermoon special?
According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when the Moon is simultaneously full and at the part of its orbit that is closest to Earth. The distance of the Moon from Earth ranges between approximately 221,457 miles and 252,712 miles.
During this month's supermoon, the moon will be approximately 224,385 miles from Earth.
A supermoon appears larger than the average full moon. According to, this is similar to the size difference between a quarter and a nickel NASAThe supermoon is about 16% brighter than an average moon.
While all supermoons appear larger and brighter than the average full moon, there is some variation. According to NASA, the November full moon will appear 6.2% larger and 12.8% brighter than the average full moon of 2024.
When will the first supermoon of 2025 occur?
Next year, three supermoons are expected starting in October earthsky.orgThere will be one on October 7, 2025, followed by one on November 5 and December 4. Then the next new year will begin with a supermoon on January 3, 2026.