What's Happening?
The second and brightest of three consecutive supermoons in 2025 will reach full illumination this week. Officially becoming full at 8:19 a.m. Eastern time on Wednesday, the November supermoon will appear nearly full on both Tuesday and Thursday. A supermoon occurs
when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee, making it appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than at its furthest point, or apogee. This particular supermoon is approximately 221,800 miles from Earth, about 2,780 miles closer than the October supermoon, marking it as the closest supermoon since 2019. The event is expected to cause king tides, which are exceptionally high tides, particularly affecting the Pacific Northwest and Florida.
Why It's Important?
The November supermoon is significant not only for its visual spectacle but also for its impact on tidal patterns. King tides, which occur during supermoons, can lead to coastal inundation, posing challenges for regions like the Pacific Northwest and Florida. These tides can exacerbate flooding in low-lying areas, affecting local communities and ecosystems. The supermoon also offers a unique opportunity for skywatchers and photographers to capture the moon's enhanced size and brightness, contributing to public interest in astronomy and natural phenomena. Additionally, the cultural significance of the Beaver Moon, named for the beaver trapping season or the activity of beavers building dams, adds a layer of historical and cultural context to the event.
What's Next?
Following the November supermoon, the final supermoon of 2025 is scheduled for December 4. Skywatchers can also look forward to the Leonids meteor shower, which peaks from November 16 to 17. This meteor shower is known for its long and colorful trails, although it typically does not produce a high number of meteors per hour. These celestial events provide ongoing opportunities for public engagement with astronomy and for educational initiatives to promote interest in space and science.
Beyond the Headlines
The supermoon phenomenon highlights the intricate relationship between celestial events and terrestrial impacts, such as tidal changes. It underscores the importance of understanding astronomical events and their potential effects on Earth's environment. The cultural names and interpretations of the moon, like the Beaver Moon, reflect the deep historical connections between human societies and lunar cycles, offering insights into how ancient cultures understood and interacted with the natural world.
