Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat on Wednesday night, November 5, 2025, as the year’s closest and brightest supermoon known as the Beaver Moon graces the night sky.
According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the point in its orbit closest to Earth, making it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it’s farthest away. Because the moon’s orbit is slightly elliptical, its distance from Earth varies, and this month’s full moon will come within just under 222,000 miles (357,000 kilometers) of our planet closer than any other this year.
Astronomers expect the moon to reach its full phase at 1:19 p.m. (local time), though the most striking views will come after sunset, when it rises on the eastern horizon and glows brilliantly against the night sky.
The Origins of the Beaver Moon
The Beaver Moon gets its name from early Native American and European folklore. Historians suggest it marked the time when beaver traps were set before rivers froze, or when beavers became most active, building their dams in preparation for winter.
Professor Sara Russell of London’s Natural History Museum explained that this will be 2025’s largest and brightest supermoon, following October’s Harvest Moon and preceding December’s Cold Moon.
How to Watch the Supermoon
Experts say that no telescope or special equipment is needed to enjoy the view just clear skies and a good vantage point.
“The difference is most obvious when compared with other moons or photographs,” said Shannon Schmoll, director of the Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University.
For the best experience, astronomers recommend heading outdoors shortly after sunset and looking toward the eastern horizon. While binoculars can enhance the details, the moon’s natural brightness will be easy to appreciate with the naked eye.
Although the moon’s proximity may cause slightly higher tides, Lawrence Wasserman of Lowell Observatory reassures that the effects will be minimal.
The Beaver Supermoon will remain visible for several nights before and after November 5, giving stargazers multiple opportunities to catch the biggest lunar spectacle of 2025.
