A Supermoon occurs because the Moon is in an elliptical orbit around the Earth. When the Moon is closest to Earth, it is at its orbital perigee, which is why a Supermoon is also known as a Perigee Moon. The November 2016 Supermoon will be the closest approach to the Earth so far during this century.
When does the Supermoon begin?
The November 2016 Supermoon begins with a moonrise over the Atlantic Ocean on Florida’s east coast at 5:11 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Sunday, November 13, 2016.
The Moon will be at its fullest (99.6% full) the following morning at 8:52 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Monday, November 14, 2016. However, the Moon will set two hours beforehand at 6:35 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.
When is the best time to watch the Supermoon?
Low-hanging moons near the horizon appear the biggest to humans. So the Supermoon will appear biggest to the naked eye on the Florida east coast:
During and just after the moonrise at 5:11 p.m. on November 13.
Just before and during the moonset at 6:35 a.m. on November 14.
During and just after the moonrise at 6:02 p.m. on November 14.
Will The Supermoon Cause Higher Tides?
Yes. The Supermoon will cause higher than normal tides. For those planning a stroll along the beach to watch the moonrise over the ocean, this Supermoon will cause a nearly 5-foot high tide during the moonrises and moonset.
Why is a Full Moon in November Called a Beaver Moon?
A Full Moon in November has seasonal names such as a “Beaver’s Moon” or “Frosty Moon” to indicate that it was the last time to catch Beavers for their fur as winter approaches.
Photo credit: NASA
