Catch the Spectacular Beaver Moon This Friday: Top Tips For Stargazing And How You Can See It

Stargazing fans, this Friday offers a special treat as the Beaver Moon graces the night sky. With interest in this astronomical event surging by 65% over the past week, Parkdean Resorts has shared its top tips for enjoying a clear view of this November supermoon.

The Beaver Moon, the first full moon of November, will reach its peak illumination around 9:25 p.m. on Friday, 15th November 2024. Known as the last supermoon of the year, this rare sighting promises to be 30% larger and brighter than typical full moons due to the Moon’s close proximity to Earth.

What is the Beaver Moon?

Named after the time of year when beavers construct their winter dams, the Beaver Moon has origins linked to Native American traditions, marking the season for trapping beavers to prepare for winter. This November supermoon, part of a sequence of four, allows Earth’s residents a spectacular view, as the Moon appears fully illuminated with Earth positioned directly between it and the Sun.

With more than 27,000 searches for ‘Beaver Moon’ recorded this month, the excitement for this celestial event is evident, attracting stargazers eager for an optimal view of the final supermoon of 2024.

Top Tips for Viewing the Beaver Moon

Parkdean Resorts has put together three key tips to maximise your stargazing experience:

1. Get Up High
   The higher you go, the clearer the view! Elevation helps minimise light pollution and improve visibility. Find an open, elevated location, and remember that the Moon will rise in the east and set in the west, so plan your spot accordingly.
2. Research Your View
   For a more engaging experience, try the free Star Chart app, available on AR-enabled Apple or Android devices. Point your camera at the sky, and the app will identify what you’re seeing, from constellations to planets.
3. Use Time and Date to Find the Planets
   The Time and Date website lets you enter your location to receive real-time details about the visibility of planets. It’s a useful tool for planning your stargazing session and learning more about the celestial bodies you’ll be viewing.

Rural Retreats for the Best Stargazing Experience

For those keen on a weekend getaway with clear skies, Parkdean Resorts offers several parks close to official dark sky sites across the UK. These locations minimise light pollution, offering an optimal setting for enjoying the Beaver Moon.

If you’re interested, consider a last-minute 3-night stay at Parkdean Resorts, with prices starting from £149. You can view their full range of breaks here.

Enjoy the magic of the night sky this Friday and take in the unforgettable sight of the Beaver Moon in all its luminous glory.