Beaver Moon 2024: Last Supermoon of the Year and How to Watch It
What is a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when a full Moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as the perigee. This proximity makes the Moon appear 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is at its farthest point, or apogee.
While the term “supermoon” is popular, it is not a scientific designation. According to Darren Baskill, a physics lecturer, the scientific term is perigee syzygy of the Earth-Moon-Sun system. Despite the subtle size difference, casual observers often enjoy the amplified brightness and size.
Why is it Called the Beaver Moon?
The Beaver Moon derives its name from Native American and European traditions. November marked the time when:
- Beavers prepared for winter by fortifying their dams and gathering food.
- Indigenous people and early settlers set beaver traps to secure furs for winter clothing.
Other cultural names include the Frost Moon (Cree Tribe) and Digging Moon, symbolizing the season’s activities.
Astronomical Pairing with the Pleiades
This year, the Beaver Moon aligns with the Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters in Greek mythology. Visible to the lower left of the Moon on November 15, this pairing is a treat for stargazers. The Pleiades are a cluster of over 1,000 stars, about 440 light-years away, and are among the closest and most visible star clusters to Earth.
The myth behind the Pleiades adds a layer of intrigue. According to Greek legend:
- The Pleiades were the seven daughters of Atlas and Pleione.
- Pursued by the hunter Orion, they were transformed into stars by Zeus to protect them.
Viewing Tips
For optimal viewing of the Beaver Supermoon:
- Time it right: The Moon will rise just after it reaches its peak, appearing fullest to the naked eye from November 15–17.
- Location matters: Areas with clear skies, such as the South and parts of California, offer the best chance to see the event. Regions like the Midwest and parts of Montana may face cloud cover.
| Region | Moonrise | Visibility Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast | 4:13 PM EST (Nov. 15) | Cloud-free skies, mostly clear. |
| West Coast | 4:35 PM PST (Nov. 15) | Mixed weather, clearer to the west. |
Here is a table reflecting the full moon visibility details for different locations on November 15th:
| Location | Date | Moonrise Time | Peak Fullness | Moonset Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States (EST) | November 15, 2024 | 4:13 p.m. ET | 4:28 p.m. ET | 7:48 a.m. ET (Nov 16) | Moon reaches peak fullness shortly after rising. |
| United States (PST) | November 15, 2024 | 4:35 p.m. PT | 1:28 p.m. PT | 7:31 a.m. PT (Nov 16) | Viewers see the moonrise after its peak. |
| United Kingdom (GMT) | November 15, 2024 | 3:30 p.m. GMT | 9:28 p.m. GMT | Before sunrise on Nov 17 | Visible throughout the night. |
NASA and the Beaver Connection
The connection between beavers and space extends beyond folklore. NASA’s Beaver Rewilding Project in Idaho uses Earth-observing satellites like Landsat to track the environmental impact of beavers. By building dams, beavers:
- Enhance water retention, aiding ecosystems and agriculture.
- Create fire-resistant landscapes.
- Support diverse habitats and vegetation.
This collaboration showcases how space technology aids in understanding ecological conservation.
Fun Facts About Supermoons
- Size comparison: A supermoon’s size difference is often likened to comparing a nickel to a quarter.
- Frequency: Supermoons occur 3–4 times a year, depending on the Moon’s orbit.
- Cultural significance: Full Moons are often tied to seasonal changes, as seen in names like the Hunter’s Moon and Harvest Moon.
Here’s a table summarizing the occurrence of supermoons in 2024, including their names, dates, and significant characteristics:
| Supermoon Name | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf Moon | January 25, 2024 | First supermoon of the year, notable for bright and clear skies in winter. |
| Snow Moon | February 24, 2024 | Known for its association with heavy snowfall during this time. |
| Harvest Moon | September 18, 2024 | Occurs near the autumn equinox, aiding agricultural activities at night. |
| Hunter’s Moon | October 17, 2024 | Associated with hunting traditions, the second to last supermoon of the year. |
| Beaver Moon | November 15, 2024 | Final supermoon of the year, coinciding with preparations for winter. |
A Celestial Farewell to 2024
The Beaver Moon marks the end of an exceptional year of back-to-back supermoons, starting with the Blue Moon in August and concluding with this November spectacle. Paired with the Pleiades, it promises a dazzling show for those fortunate enough to witness it.
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy the final supermoon of 2024—a cosmic reminder of the intricate connections between Earth, nature, and the stars.
