Beaver Moon: How and when to watch November's lunar marvel
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The Beaver Moon, a celestial spectacle steeped in tradition and history, is all set to grace the US skies on November 27 at 9.16 am GMT or 4.16 am ET.
Named by Native American tribes who attributed unique names to each full moon, the Beaver Moon is a captivating lunar event that adds a touch of enchantment to the November night sky.
What is the origin of the Beaver Moon?
The tradition of naming full moons traces back to Native American tribes, who devised a lunar calendar based on natural rhythms and seasonal changes. These names served as a way to track time, mark important events, and navigate their surroundings.
The Beaver Moon earned its title due to the beavers' nocturnal activities during this time of the year. Last year, the Beaver Blood Moon made a stunning appearance during its partial eclipse, captured in a mesmerizing shot from the Antipolo Cathedral in the Philippines on November 8, 2022
Which full moon is called the Beaver Moon?
It's fascinating how the November Full Moon transforms into either the Hunter's Moon or the Beaver Moon based on the timing.
The Hunter's Moon, with its early November appearance, historically signaled the opportune time for hunters to gather and store provisions for the winter ahead.
On the flip side, when the full moon graces the sky after November 7, it assumes the persona of the Beaver Moon, honoring the industrious activities of beavers as they diligently prepare for the impending cold.
In November, beavers become particularly active as they prepare for the winter months ahead. These industrious creatures begin building and repairing their dams and lodges, working diligently under the moonlit night.
The full moon that comes after November 7 thus became synonymous with the beavers' industrious efforts, and the name "Beaver Moon" stuck through generations.
What is the significance of the Beaver Moon?
Beyond its natural beauty, the Beaver Moon holds cultural significance across various traditions with some Native American cultures, marking a time for communal activities, storytelling, and reflection.
Its presence in the night sky became a symbol of unity, reminding communities to come together as they prepared for the winter months.
When is the next Beaver Moon?
The next Beaver Moon will be seen on November 15, 2024.
It might seem like a cosmic pause, but fear not, as you can stay in the lunar loop by following celestial updates on social media and keeping a close eye on astronomical calendars like Star Walk 2 and Sky Tonight.
These tools will ensure that you won't miss a beat—or a moon—when it comes to the dance of celestial events.
How to witness the Beaver Moon?
To catch a glimpse of this mesmerizing Beaver Moon, look towards the eastern horizon as the moon rises. The best time for observation is typically around sunset when the moon is low on the horizon and appears larger due to the "moon illusion."
Ideal locations for moon-watching include areas with minimal light pollution, such as rural or remote settings. City dwellers might consider finding a rooftop or a park away from bright streetlights to fully appreciate the beauty of the Beaver Moon.