Watch the November Supermoon and Southern Taurid Meteor Shower

A significant celestial event is set to occur this week, featuring both the full beaver supermoon and the Southern Taurid meteor shower. The full beaver moon will reach its peak on November 1, 2023, at 8:19 a.m. ET, as detailed by The Old Farmer’s Almanac. However, those hoping to catch a glimpse of this spectacular moon should plan to look outside during the evening hours, as it will not be visible at its peak time.

The term “beaver moon” originates from the period when beavers begin preparing for winter, reinforcing their dams and gathering food supplies. It is known by various names across cultures, including the “digging moon” among the Tlingit people, the “deer rutting moon” by the Dakota, and the “frost moon” by the Cree. This particular lunar event marks the second of three consecutive supermoons this year. A supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth, known as perigee, resulting in a larger and brighter appearance.

Dr. Alissa Bans, the director of undergraduate studies at Emory University‘s Department of Physics, explained that while the difference might be subtle, it is the moon at its biggest and brightest. “It’s so subtle that the human eye does not pick up the superness of it. But we still give it a fun name,” she remarked.

For those in regions affected by cloudy weather, the Virtual Telescope Project will provide a livestream of the full moon from Manciano, Italy, starting at 2 p.m. ET on November 1.

Southern Taurid Meteor Shower Peaks

In addition to the supermoon, the Southern Taurid meteor shower will peak on the same day at 8 a.m. ET, according to EarthSky. This meteor shower is characterized by a relatively weak peak, with approximately five meteors visible per hour. Robert Lunsford, the fireball report coordinator for the American Meteorological Society, noted that meteors from the Taurids can be spotted throughout the dark periods between October and early November.

The Taurids originate from the debris left by the small comet 2P/Encke, which boasts the shortest known orbit of any comet at just 3.3 years. Historically, this meteor shower has been known to produce bright fireballs during Halloween, earning the nickname “Halloween fireballs.”

“This year’s encounter with the Taurids is special because we are predicted to encounter some fresh material that’s a bit larger than your average Taurid meteor. These tend to cause fireballs,” Lunsford explained.

While spotting these meteors may be challenging due to the moonlight, there is still a possibility for viewers to catch sight of fireballs. For optimal viewing conditions, it is recommended to find a location with clear skies, away from tall buildings and bright lights. Observers should aim to be outside after sunset and before the moon reaches its highest point on the evening of November 1.

Viewing Conditions and Future Events

The Southern Taurid meteors favor the Northern Hemisphere, but they can also be seen in the Southern Hemisphere, albeit with some limitations. In regions like Australia or South Africa, the radiant point of the Taurids lies lower in the sky, which may obscure visibility.

Looking ahead, the American Meteor Society has provided a schedule of other anticipated meteor showers for the remainder of the year. Additionally, enthusiasts should prepare for the last full supermoon of 2023, offering another opportunity to engage with the wonders of our night sky.

As both the full beaver supermoon and the Southern Taurid meteor shower unfold, skywatchers around the world will have the chance to experience these remarkable celestial phenomena.