Get ready for a celestial treat, folks! Tonight, Australia's skies will be illuminated by a stunning 'beaver' moon, and we're here to guide you on how to witness this magnificent sight.
The November 'beaver' moon is set to be a real showstopper, with a supermoon gracing our skies on Wednesday evening. But here's where it gets controversial... this supermoon is not just any ordinary full moon; it's a special one that occurs when the moon is at its closest approach to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual.
A supermoon, as astronomers like to call it, is a full moon that coincides with the moon's closest point to our planet. And this week's supermoon is the second in a series of three this year, with another one expected on December 4th.
What makes this week's supermoon extra special is its size and brightness. The moon will be approximately 30,000 km closer to Earth than its average distance, resulting in a moon that appears about 10% larger and 16% brighter. That's a sight to behold!
But what's with the name 'beaver' moon? Well, this nickname has its roots in Native American and European traditions. November is the month when beavers prepare for winter, and historically, it was also the time when trappers sought their thick pelts for warm clothing across the Northern Hemisphere. So, this full moon has become associated with beavers and their winter preparations.
And this is the part most people miss... the best time to view the 'beaver' moon is just after sunset. While the moon will technically reach its closest approach after midnight, the sunset provides a perfect backdrop for an impressive sight. As astronomer Adam Batten from Swinburne University of Technology explains, "If you look at it at sunset, that's probably when it's going to look its best because it's close to the horizon, and due to an optical illusion, things appear bigger when they're on the horizon."
However, while we may be excited about this supermoon, astronomers like Batten remind us that full moons are not always the astronomer's best friend. Full moons can block out stars and other celestial objects, making it challenging for astronomers to observe the night sky. But hey, we can still appreciate the beauty of the moon and its cultural significance, right?
So, mark your calendars, grab a warm drink, and step outside tonight to witness the 'beaver' moon in all its glory. It's a reminder of the wonders of our universe and the rich cultural traditions that have given names to these celestial events.
And now, a thought-provoking question for our readers: Do you think the beauty of a supermoon outweighs the challenges it poses for astronomers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
