The Last Supermoon of 2024: Watch the Beaver Moon Lighting Up the Evening Sky!

There will be 4 super moons in 2024, of which the Hunter Moon in October is the most spectacular, appearing larger and brighter than other moons.

This rare astronomical event attracted skywatchers from around the world, with many taking stunning photos to mark the occasion.

You are watching: The Last Supermoon of 2024: Watch the Beaver Moon Lighting Up the Evening Sky!

Now, the last supermoon of the year will occur today, November 15, 2024, which is a Beaver Moon, named after the time of year when beavers build winter dams.

This supermoon is expected to be a stunning sight in the night sky, mesmerizing observers with its bright light.

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When and where to watch the last super moon of the year?

The last supermoon of 2024 will occur today, November 15, 2024 at 4:29 pm ET (November 16, 3:29 am IST). This rare celestial event will light up the sky just after the Taurids and before the Leonids begin their display.

This supermoon is significant because it is the fourth and final supermoon of the year, following the Sturgeon Moon in August, the Harvest Moon in September and the Hunter Moon in October.

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Can it be seen from India?

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Yes, this super moon can be seen from India. For viewers in India and much of Asia, the Beaver Moon will reach full illumination on November 16, 2024, at 2:58 a.m. IST. However, the best time to view the Beaver Moon is shortly after sunset on November 16, when the moon rises approximately 20 to 30 minutes after sunset. It will appear especially large and bright at this time due to the “moon illusion” effect.

What is the Beaver Moon?

The Beaver Moon is classified as a supermoon, which means it appears larger and brighter than a typical full moon due to its proximity to Earth.

A supermoon occurs when a full moon aligns with the point in the moon’s elliptical orbit that is closest to Earth, called perigee. The 2024 Beaver Moon will be nearly 14% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon.

Why is the November full moon called the Beaver Moon?

The term “Beaver Moon” relates to the time of year when beavers are particularly active, preparing for winter by building dams and gathering food.

Historically, this was also the time when trappers would set beaver traps before the swamps froze over to ensure a supply of warm pelts for the winter. Other names for this moon include Frost Moon and Cold Moon, which means the onset of cold weather and the approach of winter.

Appearance of the Beaver Moon

Viewed from Earth, the Beaver Moon appears as a bright disk lighting up the night sky. Although it is radiant, it has no light of its own; instead, it reflects sunlight.

The moon appears particularly dramatic when it rises shortly after sunset, often creating a “moon illusion” that makes it appear larger near the horizon. During this event it will also be visible next to the Pleiades star cluster, enhancing its beauty.

Will the Pleiades star cluster be visible during a supermoon?

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Yes, the Pleiades star cluster will be visible during the Beaver Moon event on November 15, 2024. The Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters, is a famous open star cluster located in the constellation Taurus, about 440 light-years away from Earth.

On Beaver Moon nights, observers can see the Pleiades star cluster to the lower left of the Moon as it rises. As the night progresses, it will move to the upper right of the moon.

While the bright light of the full Moon may wash out some of the stars in the Pleiades cluster when viewed with the naked eye, using binoculars or a telescope can enhance visibility and reveal more details of the cluster.

Other names for the November Full Moon in different cultures

November’s full moon is often called the “Beaver Moon,” with multiple names in different cultures reflecting seasonal changes and local traditions. Here are some famous names and their origins:

November full moon name

• Beaver Moon: This name originated from Native American tribes, specifically the Algonquian people, and refers to a time when beavers actively prepared for winter by gathering food and building dams. This also coincides with a time when trappers set beaver traps before swamps froze to ensure a supply of warm pelts.
• Frost Moon: This name was used by several Native American tribes, including the Cree and Assiniboine, to denote cold weather and the beginning of frosty nights.
• Frozen Moon: Another name in a Native American tradition that emphasizes the typically cold temperatures of November.
• White Fish Moon: In Algonquian culture, this name refers to the spawning season of white fish, which occurs around this time.
• Digging for the Moon: This name was used by the Tlingit to reflect the animals’ search for food before the onset of winter.
• Deer Rut Month: This name commemorates deer mating season, which occurs in late fall.
• Mourning Moon: In Celtic tradition, this name reflected the sombre nature of the coming winter.
• Darkest Depth Moon: Another Celtic name for the deepening darkness that comes with winter.

cultural significance

In addition to these names, different cultures celebrate the full moon with festivals or traditions:

• In Hindu culture, it corresponds to the important festival Kartik Purnima.
• In Thailand, Loy Krathong is celebrated by floating decorated baskets on the river.
• In Sri Lanka it is known as “Ill Poya” and marks an important Buddhist event.

in conclusion

The Beaver Moon on November 15, 2024 is the last supermoon of the year, and its larger and brighter appearance attracts skywatchers due to its proximity to the Earth.

This full moon, which peaks at 4:29 PM ET, has deep cultural significance and reflects beavers’ seasonal preparations for winter. As the fourth consecutive supermoon of 2024, it caps off a series of extraordinary moons that began with the August Blue Moon.

The Beaver Moon offers stargazers an excellent opportunity to admire its beauty alongside the Pleiades star cluster, making it an unforgettable event before winter and the next lunar cycle.

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Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion