Discover When to Watch the November Beaver Moon and Southern Taurid Meteor Shower Peak

Prepare for an exciting celestial event this week, featuring both the Beaver Moon and the Southern Taurid meteor shower. The Beaver Moon, a supermoon, will reach its peak on November 8 at 8:19 a.m. ET. Viewing this illuminating event will be best in the evening hours, as the moon will be below the horizon during the peak time.

Understanding the Beaver Moon

November’s full moon is traditionally called the Beaver Moon, signaling the time when beavers begin to prepare for winter. This lunar event is also known as the Digging Moon by the Tlingit people, the Deer Rutting Moon by the Dakota, and Frost Moon by the Cree. The Beaver Moon is the second of three supermoons occurring this year.

A supermoon occurs when the moon reaches perigee, its closest point to Earth. This phenomenon causes the moon to appear larger and brighter than usual. Dr. Alissa Bans from Emory University’s Department of Physics noted that while the difference might not be visually striking, the term “supermoon” helps indicate this lunar phase.

Viewing Opportunities

• Best viewing for the Beaver Moon: Evening hours on November 8
• Virtual Telescope Project: Livestream from Manciano, Italy, starting at 2 p.m. ET on November 8

Southern Taurid Meteor Shower

Simultaneously, the Southern Taurid meteor shower will peak on the same day at 8 a.m. ET. This meteor shower typically offers fewer meteors, with an expected rate of about five per hour. According to Robert Lunsford, a fireball report coordinator for the American Meteorological Society, the meteors are visible throughout October and early November.

About the Taurids

The Southern Taurids are formed from Earth’s passage through debris from the comet 2P/Encke, known for its short orbit of just 3.3 years. The meteor shower has been recognized for producing “Halloween fireballs” in previous years. This season’s encounter may be particularly notable due to fresh debris that could lead to larger meteor displays.

Best Viewing Practices

• Find a dark area away from city lights and tall buildings.
• Optimal viewing time: After sunset and before the moon rises on November 8.

While the moon’s brightness may obscure many meteors, there is still a possibility of spotting fireballs. According to Lunsford, although the Taurids are more visible in the Northern Hemisphere, viewers in Australia and South Africa can still expect sightings despite the lower position of the radiant in the sky.

Upcoming Meteor Showers

Mark your calendars for the remaining meteor showers this year:

Don’t miss this chance to experience the Beaver Moon and the Southern Taurid meteor shower! Enjoy a night of stargazing as you witness these beautiful celestial occurrences.