Overview: A spectacular November full moon and a sky full of fire
The November full moon is set to put on one of the most dramatic nighttime shows of the year, as the largest supermoon of 2025 rises near the peak of the Southern Taurid meteor shower. This pairing means a brighter-than-usual moon and a higher chance of bright fireballs streaking across the sky—perfect for skywatchers and amateur astronomers alike.
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. In 2025, the November full moon will appear noticeably larger and more luminous than typical full moons, creating an unmistakable silver disk on clear nights. Add in the Southern Taurids, a shower known for occasional dramatic fireball sightings, and the evening becomes a must-see astronomical event.
When and where to catch the best views
The peak viewing window for the largest 2025 supermoon is in the hours surrounding moonrise and just before local midnight. Check local sunset times and aim for approximately 60 to 90 minutes after dusk, when atmospheric conditions and the moon’s rising altitude maximize its brilliance. For meteor activity, watch after local twilight ends until late evening, though individual fireballs can appear at any time during the Taurids’ peak.
Where you should be matters most: seek dark, unobstructed horizons away from bright city lights. Rural counties, coastal cliffs, or high desert areas typically offer the clearest skies. If you’re in a well-lit town, a park or hilltop with an unobstructed view toward the eastern or southern sky can suffice.
How to photograph or document the event
To capture the largest 2025 supermoon and possible Taurid fireballs, bring a sturdy tripod, a wide-angle lens, and a remote shutter release. Start with a baseline exposure of 2–4 seconds at ISO 800–1600 for the moon, adjusting as needed to avoid overexposure. For meteors, use interval shooting or a long-exposure composite technique to increase the likelihood of recording multiple fireballs in a single frame.
Pro tip: bracket your exposures to accommodate varying moon brightness, and consider a light pollution filter only if you’re shooting in relatively bright areas. Don’t forget a blanket or chair for comfort—you may be outdoors for several hours.
What to expect during the Southern Taurid meteor shower
The Southern Taurids are famous for occasional bright fireballs rather than high meteor counts. During the peak, you may see sporadic but dramatic fireballs streaking across the sky. Pairing this with a near-planetary-bright moon increases the drama, but also complicates sky darkness. Keep your eyes on darker regions of the sky away from the moon’s intense light to maximize meteor visibility.
Tips for a safe and enjoyable viewing session
Dress warmly and bring layers, as nighttime temperatures can drop quickly. If you’re in a group, plan a simple itinerary: arrive early, set up, scan for the moon, then scan for meteors after it rises. Remember to avoid glaring headlights, and use red-light headlamps to preserve your night vision. Hydration and snacks help if you’ll be out for several hours.
Why this event is worth watching
Seeing the largest supermoon of 2025 alongside a meteor shower is a rare, photogenic combination. It offers a chance to observe the Moon’s altered apparent size, the subtle changes in lunar surface detail as it brightens, and occasional bright fireballs that punctuate the night sky. Whether you’re a casual sky watcher or a seasoned amateur astronomer, this is a night to step outside, look up, and enjoy the natural spectacle.
