Largest Supermoon of 2025 Lights Up U.S. Sky

Get ready for a spectacular lunar show tonight, America! On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the largest and brightest supermoon of the year will rise across the United States. Known as the Beaver Moon, this full moon marks the year’s closest approach to Earth, creating a breathtaking sight that will light up the evening sky.

If you love skywatching or photography — or simply want to experience one of nature’s most striking moments — tonight is your best chance of 2025.

What Is a Supermoon?

A supermoon happens when the Moon reaches its full phase while being near its closest point to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee.

Because of this closer distance, the Moon can appear 6–8% larger and up to 30% brighter than an average full moon. The effect is especially noticeable when it’s rising or setting, as it appears huge against the horizon — a phenomenon known as the moon illusion.

In 2025, there are multiple full moons, but November’s Beaver Moon is the closest and most impressive of them all.

Why It’s Called the Beaver Moon

The Beaver Moon name comes from Native American and early Colonial traditions. November was the time when beavers began building their winter dams, and trappers would set beaver traps before the swamps froze over.

This seasonal name has endured for centuries and today symbolizes preparation, reflection, and the transition into winter.

Some other traditional names for this full moon include the Frost Moon or Freezing Moon, but “Beaver Moon” remains the most common.

Why This Is the Largest Supermoon of 2025

This full moon isn’t just bright — it’s the biggest one of the entire year.

The Moon will be at a distance of about 222,000 miles (357,000 km) from Earth, making it the closest full moon of 2025. Its timing is nearly perfect: the full moon phase occurs just hours after the Moon reaches perigee, producing the largest apparent size of any full moon this year.

That’s why astronomers and stargazers alike are calling this the “showstopper supermoon” of 2025.

When and Where to See It in the U.S.

The Moon officially turns full at 8:19 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, November 5. Since that happens during daylight, the best time to see the full supermoon will be tonight, just after sunset, when the Moon rises in the eastern sky.

Here’s a quick guide to moonrise times across the U.S.:

The Moon will rise around the same time the Sun sets — making the transition from twilight to moonlight especially dramatic.

What It Will Look Like

Expect tonight’s full moon to appear:

• 6–8% larger than an average full moon
• 14–30% brighter, especially at moonrise and during clear conditions

When it first rises, it may appear deep orange or golden due to atmospheric scattering — a beautiful moment for photography. As it climbs higher in the sky, it will turn into a crisp, bright silver-white disc.

Even if you’ve seen full moons before, this one will feel bigger, bolder, and more luminous — a perfect reminder of why supermoons never fail to amaze.

How to Photograph the 2025 Beaver Supermoon

If you plan to capture tonight’s moon, follow these tips to get stunning shots:

1. Shoot at Moonrise

The best photos happen during the first 15–30 minutes after moonrise, when the Moon is low and the sky still holds color from sunset.

2. Include a Foreground

Frame the Moon against familiar landmarks like skyscrapers, bridges, trees, or mountains to emphasize its size.

3. Camera Settings

• ISO: 100–400
• Aperture: f/8 to f/11
• Shutter Speed: 1/125s to 1/250s
  Use a tripod for stability, especially if zooming in.

4. Smartphone Tips

• Tap to focus on the Moon.
• Reduce brightness manually to reveal surface details.
• Use 2×–5× zoom for a balanced shot.

5. Plan Your Spot

Check your local weather and horizon visibility. Open spaces like beaches, parks, or rooftops give the clearest view.

Fun Facts About the November Supermoon

• It’s the final major supermoon of 2025.
  Earlier supermoons this year were smaller; November’s is the peak event.
• It affects tides.
  The Moon’s gravitational pull will cause slightly higher “king tides” along U.S. coastlines for a few days.
• It’s perfect for stargazing.
  The supermoon’s brightness will outshine most stars — so enjoy it as a celestial spotlight on the night sky.
• It aligns beautifully with fall colors.
  Across much of the U.S., fall foliage will frame the Moon’s rise, making for striking photos and scenic evenings.

Viewing Tips for Every Region

East Coast:
Watch the Moon rise directly over the Atlantic or city skylines. New York, Boston, and Miami will get prime views around 5:20–5:40 PM ET.

Midwest:
From Chicago to Kansas City, the Moon will appear huge over flat horizons. Look east around 5:00 PM CT.

Mountain States:
In Denver, Salt Lake City, and Albuquerque, moonrise happens near 5:10 PM MT — look for dramatic orange hues.

West Coast:
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle will see moonrise between 5:15 and 5:45 PM PT, just as twilight deepens. Coastal areas will have the best contrast between sea and sky.

Common Myths vs. Reality

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Supermoons like this don’t happen every month. The next comparably large full moon won’t occur until late 2026. Tonight’s event combines the perfect conditions — clear skies, fall colors, and early evening timing — for everyone in the U.S. to enjoy.

Whether you’re stepping outside your suburban home, camping in a national park, or catching a view from a city rooftop, the November 2025 supermoon promises to be one of the most beautiful natural sights of the year.

A Moment to Reflect

Full moons have inspired awe and storytelling for thousands of years. The Beaver Moon of 2025 — the largest of its kind — offers a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature’s rhythms.

Take a few minutes tonight to admire it. Watch as the Moon climbs above your neighborhood, casting silver light across the landscape. In that moment, you’re part of something ancient and universal — a tradition of skywatchers stretching back through human history.

Quick Summary

• Event: The Largest Supermoon of 2025
• Full Moon Name: Beaver Moon
• Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
• Peak Fullness: 8:19 AM ET
• Best Viewing: Around sunset, November 5
• Direction: East
• Distance from Earth: ~222,000 miles (357,000 km)
• Next Major Supermoon: 2026