Skywatchers around the globe are in for a breathtaking sight as the closest Supermoon of 2025 will shine brightly on November 5 at 13:19 UTC. According to NASA, the Moon will appear slightly larger and brighter than usual, marking one of the most spectacular lunar events of the year.
A Supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit. This time, the Moon will be just under 222,000 miles (357,000 kilometers) away, making it up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than the faintest full moon of the year.
Why the Supermoon Looks Bigger
Because the Moon’s orbit around Earth isn’t a perfect circle, its distance varies throughout the month. When it reaches its perigee (the closest point to Earth), the Moon appears bigger and shines more brightly — the effect that gives us a Supermoon.
Astronomer Lawrence Wasserman from Lowell Observatory explained that the Moon’s closeness may have a minor effect on tides but won’t cause significant changes.
“Tides might rise slightly due to the Moon’s proximity, but the difference will be barely noticeable,” Wasserman said.
Visibility and Best Time to Watch
The Supermoon will be visible to the naked eye across most parts of the world, weather permitting. Experts recommend finding an open area away from city lights for the best view.
Shannon Schmoll, director of Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University, said most people might not notice the difference in size unless comparing images.
“The difference is most obvious as a comparison between other images or observations,” said Schmoll.
Second of Three Supermoons in 2025
The November event marks the second of three Supermoons occurring in 2025. The first appeared on October 7, known as the “Harvest Moon.” The upcoming November Supermoon is traditionally called the “Beaver Moon,” named for the season when beavers build their dams in preparation for winter.
The final Supermoon of 2025 will rise on December 4, completing this year’s series of dazzling lunar events.
A Bright Night for Skywatchers
With clear skies, the Beaver Moon Supermoon promises one of the brightest and most stunning lunar views of the year. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or a casual stargazer, November 5 is the night to look up and enjoy nature’s celestial show.
