NORFOLK, Va. — The Supermoon this Friday, November 15, 2024, should be a spectacular celestial event, offering skywatchers an extraordinary view of the Moon as it reaches its closest approach to Earth in its orbit.
What is a supermoon?
This phenomenon, also known as a "perigee full moon," occurs when the Moon is both full and at perigee, the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit. On this date, the Moon will appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it's at its farthest point, called apogee.
When is the supermoon this week?
Thursday the moon will come within 225,000 miles of Earth. The fullest lunar phase occurs on Friday.
This will be the fourth and final "supermoon" of 2024. The Supermoon was the closest to our planet in October of this year. It came within 222,055 miles of Earth.
Supermoons are especially striking when the weather cooperates, as they illuminate the night sky with an intense, silvery glow. In 2024, the November supermoon will also be close to the Earth’s horizon, which can make it appear even larger, a visual illusion known as the "moon illusion." This effect occurs when the Moon is seen near trees, buildings, or other objects, amplifying its size compared to when it is higher in the sky.
What is the weather on the night of the supermoon?
Clouds and showers early Friday morning for Hampton Roads should be gone before evening, and skies should become mainly clear Friday evening. Check back with our weather team at 13News Now for forecast updates!
This supermoon is also the "Beaver Moon." It gets its name because this is the time of year when beavers typically start taking to their lodges. It will have an added layer of intrigue for astronomers and stargazers.
Its timing in mid-November means that it will be a prime opportunity for observing lunar features, including craters and maria (the dark, flat plains on the Moon’s surface), as the angle of sunlight will create dramatic contrasts. Hopefully, the weather will work out and the November 15, 2024, supermoon will be a delight to behold!
When is the next supermoon?
You should get out now to get a look. The next opportunity to view a supermoon won't arrive until October 2025.