Beaver Moon to Light Up the Sky Tomorrow: When And Where to Watch Final Supermoon of 2024

Science News: The final supermoon of 2024 known as the ‘Beaver Moon’ is soon to grace the skies on November 15 night, and it's an event no stargazer or astronomy enthusiast will want to miss. 

The reason behind it being named ‘Beaver Moon’ is that this supermoon is particularly special because it marks the fourth and final supermoon of the year.

How Does Supermoon Event Unfolds 

Supermoons occur when a full moon coincides with perigee, the point in the moon's elliptical orbit when it is closest to Earth. This proximity causes the moon to appear larger and brighter than usual, creating a breathtaking sight. 

As the Beaver Moon reaches its full illumination, it will shine with an intensity that is sure to captivate viewers.

Beaver Moon Finds Its Root in North America

The name "Beaver Moon" has its roots in North American traditions. Native American tribes gave this moon its name, linking it to the time of year when beavers begin preparing for winter by building their lodges and gathering food. 

This marks a shift in the seasons, and the full moon in November is also known as the Frost Moon or Snow Moon, signaling the onset of colder weather.

3 Supermoon Phenomena Occured In 2024 

For stargazers, the Beaver Moon is a particularly significant event, as it is the fourth and final supermoon of 2024. The year has already offered some stunning lunar spectacles, including the Sturgeon Moon in August, the Harvest Moon in September, and the Hunter's Moon in October. 

At What Time India Can Witness This Supermoon

In India, the Beaver Moon will be visible in all its glory. The full moon will reach its peak illumination at 2:58 AM IST on November 16. However, the best time for Indian observers to catch the moon at its most magnificent will be on the evening of November 16, just after sunset, when the moon rises on the horizon. 

At this moment, the moon will appear larger due to a phenomenon known as the "moon illusion," which makes the moon appear bigger near the horizon than when it is higher in the sky.

Adding to the allure of this supermoon event, observers will also have the chance to see the Pleiades star cluster, often referred to as the "Seven Sisters."

On November 15, the Pleiades will be positioned to the lower left of the moon, and by the time the moon rises on November 16, the cluster will shift to the upper right of the moon. This alignment provides a striking celestial view for those lucky enough to witness it.

For those planning to watch the supermoon, it’s recommended to find a location with a clear view of the eastern horizon, away from the bright lights of the city. This will enhance the viewing experience, allowing observers to fully appreciate the moon’s luminosity and size. Bringing along binoculars or a telescope will also provide a closer look at the moon's surface, revealing its craters and texture in stunning detail.