Stargazers Anticipate Full Moon and Meteor Shower
Prepare yourself for a double dose of celestial spectacles this week. The full moon of November, often referred to as the 'beaver moon', is set to reach its peak. However, the moon will be below the horizon at this time. So, the best time for viewing this lunar phenomenon is during the evening hours.
Why is it called the Beaver Moon?
The name 'beaver moon' is given to this lunar event because it signifies the time when beavers start getting ready for the winter. They do this by strengthening their dams and lodges, and gathering food. Apart from beaver moon, this full moon is known by other names among different communities. The Tlingit people call it the digging moon, the Dakota refer to it as the deer rutting moon, and the Cree know it as the frost moon.
This 'beaver moon' is the second in a series of three consecutive supermoons this year. A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and fuller. But the increase in size is so subtle that it's not easily noticeable to the human eye. Regardless, the event is given this exciting name to highlight the technicality that this is the moon at its largest and brightest, albeit not significantly larger than its usual appearance.
More Celestial Wonders
That's not all. Apart from the supermoon, you can also look forward to the Southern Taurid meteor shower this week. This meteor shower doesn't have a strong peak- you might only spot about five meteors in an hour. But if it's dark, you can still see these slow meteors originating from the constellations of Aries in October and Taurids in November.
The Taurids are a result of Earth passing through the debris left behind by a small comet with the shortest known orbit of just 3.3 years. This meteor shower has previously resulted in fireballs around Halloween, earning them the nickname 'Halloween fireballs'. This year's encounter with the Taurids is expected to be special as we're predicted to encounter some larger material that can cause fireballs.
Spotting the Show
For those planning to witness these meteors, be aware that they might be difficult to spot since the moonlight can overshadow most activity. However, there is still a chance to see a fireball. For the best viewing experience, find a location with clear skies away from tall buildings and bright lights. You should aim to be outside any time after sunset and before the moon reaches its highest point.
These meteors slightly favor the Northern Hemisphere, but they can be seen in both hemispheres. For viewers in Australia or South Africa, the radiant is lower in the sky, so more of the Taurid meteors will be obscured by the horizon.
More Celestial Events to Look Forward To
Here are the peak dates of other meteor showers expected this year.
- List of meteor showers
- List of supermoons