Marvel at the 2024 Beaver Moon: The Final Supermoon Shines Brightly Around the Globe!

As we bid farewell to the year 2024, the night sky dazzled with the last supermoon of the year, known as the 'Beaver Moon,' which illuminated the heavens this past Saturday night. With its vibrant hues and stunning glow, it captivated onlookers across the globe.

Understanding the Beaver Moon

November’s full moon, often referred to as the 'Beaver Moon,' also bears the names 'Mourning Moon' and 'Frost Moon,' heralding the transitions of seasons as winter approaches. Traditionally, this name comes from the time of year when beavers are actively preparing for winter or hunting for their last catches before the lakes freeze.

Timing of the Beaver Moon

The Beaver Moon reached its full phase at 21:28 UTC (4:28 p.m. EST) on Friday, November 15, but the optimum experience came on Saturday, November 16, during moonrise. It graced the eastern horizon just after sunset and coincided with the dazzling peak of the annual Leonid meteor shower, making it a spectacular night for stargazers.

The Science Behind the Full Moon

For astronomy enthusiasts, the full moon is a remarkable sight, appearing fully illuminated by the sunlight—although technically, it’s always half-lit. The phenomenon stems from the moon being tidally locked to Earth, which means it rotates on its axis in perfect sync with its orbit, presenting just one face to our planet.

Distance and Size of the Beaver Moon

This year, the Beaver Moon was approximately 224,853 miles (361,866 kilometers) away from Earth, marking it as the third-smallest supermoon of 2024. Supermoons occur when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth (perigee), resulting in a moon that appears about 10% larger and brighter than usual.

Looking Ahead: The Cold Moon

As we look forward, the next phase will be the 'Cold Moon,' scheduled to grace the sky at 9:01 UTC (4:01 a.m. ET) on December 15. This full moon represents the final lunar milestone of 2024 and promises to reach higher in the sky than any previous full moon that year.

Conclusion

In a world that often feels chaotic, taking a moment to gaze at the heavens and appreciate the beauty of celestial events like the Beaver Moon can be truly grounding. So, here's to wishing you clear skies and a moment to soak in this remarkable view—don't miss the enchanting spectacle of the final full moon of the year!