November’s full moon, known as the supermoon beaver, reaches peak illumination this Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 8:19 am Brasília time. This astronomical event occurs when the moon is in its full phase and at its closest point to Earth, approximately 356,980 kilometers away. Observers in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere may notice the phenomenon, which coincides with the peak of meteor showers like the southern taurids.
The term supermoon beaver refers to the tradition of lunar names linked to natural cycles, especially in autumn. The moon appears larger and brighter due to the natural satellite’s elliptical orbit. For best viewing, it is recommended to observe at dusk, when the lunar disk appears on the eastern horizon.
- Peak lighting: November 5th, 8:19 am (Brasília time).
- Minimum distance: 356,980 km from Earth.
- Visible duration: Appears in full from November 4th to 6th.
Origin of the name beaver
The name beaver arises from the activity of beavers in autumn, when these animals build shelters before the harsh winter. In the Northern Hemisphere, the month of November marks the period in which beavers reinforce their dams with food stores.
Indigenous and colonial traditions associate the moon with these seasonal preparations. Other names include Frost Moon or Digging Moon, reflecting early frosts and nut foraging.
What defines a supermoon
A supermoon happens when the full moon coincides with perigee, its closest orbital point to Earth. In this case, the apparent diameter increases by up to 14% and the brightness by 30%, according to astronomical calculations.
In 2025, November records the closest supermoon of the year, surpassing those of October and December. The elliptical orbit explains annual variations, with cycles of three or four consecutive events.
This configuration generates more intense tides, known as spring tides, influenced by the Sun-Earth-Moon alignment.
Associated meteor showers
Southern taurids peak between November 4th and 5th, aligning with the supermoon. This shower produces around five meteors per hour, with emphasis on visible fireballs.
The northern taurids continue, with a maximum on November 11th and 12th, enhancing double meteor displays. Both radiate from the constellation Taurus, close to the moon.
For observation, choose dark places after midnight, allowing the eyes to adapt to darkness within 30 minutes.
November lunar phases
The waning moon follows the peak, with a waning quarter on the 12th of ninembro. The new moon occurs on November 20th, starting the cycle.
Other phases include the first quarter on November 28th. These transitions affect visibility of subsequent celestial events.
The complete lunar cycle lasts 29.5 days, influencing tidal patterns and night navigation.
Tips for Optimal Observation
Choose horizons free of obstructions to capture the moonrise, which takes on an orange tone due to atmospheric refraction. Binoculars reveal details like craters in Taurus.
Avoid urban light pollution; parks or rural areas offer better conditions. Tripod photography captures apparent movement.
Supermoon Beaver ends a three-part run in 2025, with the next in December as Cold Moon.