What makes the November supermoon special
The term “supermoon” describes a full moon that appears larger and brighter because the Moon is near its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. The November supermoon this year stands out as the closest such lunar event of the year, offering skywatchers a brighter, more pronounced satellite silhouette against the night sky. Even at a casual glance, the Moon can look bigger than it does on ordinary full-moon nights, and with ideal observing conditions, the craters and maria become more striking.
Timing: when to look up
The November supermoon occurs with the Moon near perigee, the point in its orbit closest to Earth. In 2024, for example, this closest-approach event is scheduled for November 5 at 13:19 UTC. Observers around the world may see the Moon look unusually large for a short window centered on this time. Because the Moon’s full phase may occur a bit before or after perigee, local viewing times can vary by time zone, weather, and your horizon angle. Check your local sunset and moonrise times to plan a viewing session shortly after or before the estimated perigee moment.
Where to look and how to observe
Find a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the eastern or western sky, depending on the Moon’s rise in your area. A quiet vantage point away from bright city lights will improve contrast, helping you pick out the Moon’s details. A modest telescope or even a good pair of binoculars can reveal more of the Moon’s texture—craters, mountain ranges, and the subtle shading of the lunar seas—during a supermoon.
Timing tips:
- Check local moonrise and moonset times for your city and aim to view the Moon around those moments when it’s closer to the horizon, which can enhance apparent size due to the optical illusion known as the Moon illusion.
- Turn off artificial lights, allow your eyes to adjust, and consider bringing a warm layer as observing can be chilly after nightfall.
- Capture the moment with a camera using a stable tripod. A longer exposure isn’t necessary for a bright Moon; you’ll want crisp detail rather than a blown-out disk.
Why this is the year’s closest supermoon matters
A closer perigee means the Moon appears slightly larger and brighter than typical full moons. While the difference may be subtle to casual observers, dedicated skygazers will notice a more pronounced disk and finer surface texture. The event is also a good reminder of the Moon’s dynamic orbit and its impact on tides, as a closer Moon exerts a stronger gravitational pull on Earth. Though the brightness won’t cause dramatic tides in most locations, coastal observers may still see slightly elevated tides around the event.
Beyond the main event: what to watch for
Pair the supermoon with other autumn skies—look for bright planets that may accompany the Moon during dusk and early night in the weeks around the event. The Moon’s phase and position can make it a convenient anchor point for a broader night-sky observing plan. If you’re new to lunar watching, keep a simple sky journal or a photo log to track visible features over multiple nights.
Summary: how to make the most of the November supermoon
For skywatchers, the November supermoon offers a prime chance to observe the Moon’s close approach to Earth. Plan for a clear evening, know the timing for your local area in relation to 13:19 UTC, and prepare a simple setup—whether binoculars or a modest telescope. With patient observation, this closest supermoon of the year can provide a memorable glimpse of our nearest celestial neighbor.
