Additional Coverage:
- Must-see astronomical events this November: Brightest Supermoon of the year, dazzling pair of meteor showers (foxweather.com)
November Sky Spectacular: Supermoon and Meteor Showers Set to Dazzle
Get ready to cast your eyes skyward this November, as the month promises a celestial feast for stargazers across the U.S. From the biggest and brightest Supermoon of the year to a pair of dazzling meteor showers, there’s plenty to keep us looking up.
The astronomical action kicks off early with the Full Beaver Moon, a Supermoon event, peaking on November 5th. While its official peak is around 8:20 a.m., North American viewers will want to catch this magnificent sight either the night before or after to witness its full glory. This Supermoon is set to be the largest and most luminous of 2025, offering a truly breathtaking display.
The moniker “Beaver Moon” has a couple of origin stories, according to the Farmer’s Almanac. Some believe it harks back to Native American traditions of setting beaver traps before waterways froze, while others suggest it refers to beavers diligently building their winter dams.
A Supermoon occurs when the Moon’s elliptical orbit brings it closest to Earth, a point known as perigee, at the same time as a full moon. While not a strict astronomical term, NASA defines a Supermoon as a full moon occurring within 90% of its closest orbital approach to Earth.
But the lunar spectacle is just the beginning! November also brings two meteor showers to our attention.
The Southern Taurids, known for their abundance of fireballs, will be active through November 20th, with their peak expected on November 5th, coinciding with the Supermoon. Following closely, the Northern Taurids will peak on November 11th and 12th, also promising streaks of fireballs across the night sky.
Mid-November offers another can’t-miss event: the Leonid meteor shower, peaking on November 16th and 17th. Considered a major meteor shower, the Leonids have a history of producing spectacular meteor storms.
Under ideal conditions, between midnight and sunrise on November 17th, skygazers can expect to see 10 to 20 meteors per hour. The waning moon will be a helpful ally, ensuring minimal interference with the show.
For those eager for a truly epic display, the Leonids are known to produce meteor storms with over 1,000 meteors per hour approximately every 33 years. The last major storm was in 2002, and while we’re not expecting another true storm until 2099, each preceding shower should become more vivid.
Even though the Orionids peaked in late October, they will remain active until November 7th. Keep an eye out for these, as they can also produce fireballs – those bright, explosive streaks of light that make skywatching so exciting.
So, prepare your blankets, find a clear viewing spot away from city lights, and get ready for an unforgettable month of celestial wonders!