This year, we have been treated to various stunning celestial events by the moon, and now the grand finale is approaching with the last supermoon of 2024 known as the Beaver Moon.
But what exactly is a supermoon? How can you witness its beauty at its peak? And why is it called the Beaver Moon? Whether you plan to observe it from your backyard or venture to a remote location for clearer skies, here is everything you need to know to make the most of this year’s final significant lunar event.
When will the Beaver Moon be visible in 2024?
The UK, US, and the rest of the world will witness the full Beaver Supermoon on November 15, 2024. Following this date, the moon will appear full for several consecutive nights.
“A full moon occurs when the moon is directly opposite the sun in the sky at a precise moment down to the second,” explains Dr. Darren Baskill, an astronomer and astrophotographer from the University of Sussex.
“To the naked eye, the moon appears full or nearly full for two to three days from the exact moment of the full moon.”
In the UK, the moon will rise around 3:30 pm local time. In Los Angeles, it will rise at 3:30 PM local time, and in New York, it will be approximately 4:29 PM ET.
“For the most spectacular views, try capturing photographs just after sunset or just before sunrise. This is when the moon appears largest and most dramatic against the horizon,” said Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astronomical particle physics and cosmology from King’s College, London.
Why is it called the Beaver Moon?
The supermoon in November is named after the beaver as beavers are often observed during this period.
Leading up to winter, beavers prepare for the cold months and build food storage in case their ponds freeze over.
What causes a supermoon?
During a supermoon, the moon’s surface appears 7 percent larger (and 15 percent brighter) in the sky compared to an average full moon. This is because the moon is closer to Earth than usual (approximately 363,700 km or 226,000 miles away).
Due to the moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth, there is a point where the moon naturally approaches Earth (perigee). Conversely, there is a point (apogee) where the moon moves away from us. When a full moon coincides with perigee, a supermoon occurs. The timing of the full moon allows for multiple supermoons in a row.
This discrepancy in cycles allows for repeated occurrences of supermoons. The moon’s elliptical orbit gradually changes alignments, resulting in multiple supermoons in succession.
“Gravitational forces from Earth, the sun, and other planets influence the moon’s orbit, leading to these fluctuations and the impressive phenomenon of supermoons,” explained Balaji.
Specifically, a supermoon requires the moon to complete a lunar cycle and be at its closest point to Earth in its orbit.
Where is the best place to see the Beaver Supermoon?
To get the best views, escape the city lights and head to areas with minimal light pollution. For a truly remarkable experience, visit the coast and observe how the supermoon affects tides.
“When the moon is at its closest point to Earth (perigee) and is full, the gravitational pull on Earth’s oceans is stronger,” Balaji noted.
“Expect to witness more significant tidal fluctuations, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides than usual.”
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
