How and When You Can See November's Supermoon

Look up at the sky in the next couple of days to see the brightest and largest supermoon of the year. The November full moon, known as the Beaver Moon, is 2025’s second supermoon.

What Is the Beaver Moon?

The term "Beaver Moon" refers to the full moon occurring in November. Each full moon throughout the year has a unique name tied to cultural meanings. The November moon’s name comes from beavers beginning to take shelter in their dams during this season, according to the Almanac. Another reason for the name is that November was the time when people set beaver traps during the fur trade era.

What Makes a Supermoon?

A "supermoon" is a full moon that appears larger and brighter because the moon's orbit brings it closer to Earth. When the moon reaches its perigee—the closest point to Earth—it can look up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than the smallest full moon of the year, according to NASA.

Supermoons happen about three to four times annually.
The first supermoon of 2025 was the Harvest Moon in October.
A third and final supermoon will occur in December 2025.

Viewing Details

The Beaver Moon will reach peak brightness on Wednesday, November 6, but it can also be seen the evening of Tuesday, November 5.

“Beaver Moon” is the term used to describe the full moon that takes place in November.

“When the moon is at its perigee—its closest point to Earth—it can look up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than the faintest moon of the year,” according to NASA.

Author's summary: November's Beaver Moon is a stunning supermoon offering a rare chance to see an unusually large and bright full moon this year.

Time Magazine — 2025-11-05