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The Beaver Supermoon is set to illuminate the skies later this month, peaking on Tuesday, November 24. According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, the full moon will reach its peak illumination at 9:53 a.m. Eastern Time. The best viewing opportunities will be on the evenings of Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24.
This supermoon will appear up to eight percent larger and 16 percent brighter than an average full moon. It marks the first of three consecutive supermoons, with others expected in December and January. The term "supermoon" refers to a full moon that occurs near perigee, the point in the moon’s orbit when it is closest to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter.
The Beaver Moon, as it is traditionally known, is named for the time of year when beavers historically build their dams in preparation for winter. Forbes notes that this moon is the third and final full moon of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Astronomy website explains that the full moon occurs when Earth is directly between the Sun and the Moon, allowing the entire face of the Moon to be illuminated. The Beaver Moon will be visible for about three nights, but the most impressive views are expected at moonrise, just after sunset on November 24.