People across the UK will be able to se the last supermoon of 2024 on Friday, the Beaver Moon. Supermoons happen when the Moon is closest to the Earth, giving it a larger appearance than normal.
This can be as much as 30% more than a regular full moon, making it appear bigger and brighter than usual, even though its size doesn’t actually change. The full Beaver Moon will be visible from Friday, November 15, 2024 and will reach peak illumination at about 9:25pm.
The Beaver Moon is the name given to the first full moon in November. It will be the last supermoon of 2024. With the month of November being the time of year when beavers begin to build their winter dams, this is how the full moon has got its name. Some say the name comes from native Americans trapping beavers to stock up on meat for the winter.
With each month on average having one full moon, it marks the occasion whereby the moon appears fully illuminated from Earth’s perspective and occurs when Earth is located between the Sun and the Moon.
Here are Parkdean Resort’s top tips for stargazing:
1 Get up high
The further up you are, the better your chance of a clear sky to see the stars. Take a hike and explore the surroundings to find the perfect stargazing spot! The further you are away from light pollution the better chance you’ll have of seeing the stars. Moons always rise in the east and set in the west – so follow this direction in your search.
2 Research what you’re looking at
Enhance the stargazing experience and download the Star Chart app, free on AR-enabled Apple or Android devices. Star Chart allows you to point the camera at the sky and will tell you exactly what is up there.
3 Use the Time and Date website for the best chance of spotting the planets!
Time and Date allows you to input your location, before generating information about when the planets are most visible! With lots of helpful information about what’s in the universe, this is a great way to educate the family about the wonders of space.