This week brings the largest supermoon of the year. Supermoons occur because the moon’s orbit is not perfectly circular around the Earth. Instead, it is an ellipse, meaning that sometimes the moon will be closer to the Earth than at other times.

When a full moon coincides with the moon being within 10% of its closest point to Earth, we call it a supermoon. Its proximity makes it appear subtly bigger and brighter than other full moons.

On 5 November 2025, the moon will be just under 357,000km from Earth, making it the nearest full moon of the year, and therefore the largest supermoon. It will appear 8% larger and about 16% brighter than average.

Why “Beaver” and Why So Super?Native American and colonial traditions dubbed November’s full moon the Beaver Moon because this is when beavers finish stocking their lodges for winter—or when trappers set their traps before rivers froze. Other indigenous names include Frost Moon, Freezing Moon, or Whitefish Moon. This year, it’s also the second in a trio of consecutive supermoons (October’s Harvest, November’s Beaver, December’s Cold).

A supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with perigee—the moon’s closest orbital point to Earth. On November 5, perigee falls just hours after peak fullness at 13:19 UTC (8:19 a.m. EST / 1:19 p.m. GMT), creating the tightest alignment of 2025. The last time we saw a full moon this close? February 2019.

When & Where to LookThe moon technically peaks in daylight for most of the Americas and Europe, so sunset on Wednesday, November 5 is prime time. Look east as twilight deepens—the moon will rise golden-orange and enormous against the horizon.

Step outside tonight, tilt your chin, and let 4.5 billion years of lunar clockwork wash over you. No telescope, no app, no filter needed—just you and the biggest, brightest Beaver Moon of our lifetime.Clear skies, friends.

Native American Names for November Full Moon Itartoryuk Moon (Inuit). Tree Moon (Neo-Pagan). Poverty Moon (Mohawk). Trading Moon (Cherokee). Geese Going Moon (Kiowa). Falling Leaves moon (Sioux). Fledgling Raptor Moon (Hopi). Deer Ruting Moon (Cheyenne). Freezing River Moon(Arapaho). Snow Moon (Mediaeval English). Mourning Moon : Full, Dead : Dark (Janic). Corn Harvest Moon (Taos Native American). Snowy Morning Mountains Moon (Wishram). All Gathered Moon (San Juan Native American). Beaver Moon, Frosty Moon (Algonquin Native American/Colonia).

Other moon names : Fog Moon, Deer Antler Shedding moon, Oak moon, Mad moon, Storm moon, Dark moon.

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The first supermoon of 2025 will appear in our skies on Tuesday night kicking off a series of lunar events.

The full Harvest Moon rises in the UK at around 18:20 GMT on 7 October and will mark the start of a run of three consecutive supermoons in the final three months of 2025.

It will be the largest and brightest full Moon of the year so far and the first supermoon since November 2024.

If you want to catch a glimpse keep an eye on the forecast though as cloud may obscure the view in some places. What makes a full Moon a supermoon?

The Moon's orbit around the Earth is not circular but elliptical, meaning that the distance between the two varies throughout the year.

If the Moon is full at its closest point to Earth - called the perigee - or within 90% of its closest point, it can be referred to as a 'supermoon'.

The term was first coined in 1979 by astrologer Richard Nolle to describe full Moons that appear noticeably larger and brighter as they coincide with the perigee.

They can seem to be up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than other full moons, external.

Different parts of the astronomical community chose to define supermoons in slightly varying ways. An alternative definition is any full Moon within 360,000km of the centre of the Earth - and under this interpretation October's Harvest Moon would not qualify. What is a Harvest Moon?

Full Moons throughout the year are given names, often dating back centuries, that reflect what is happening in nature.

October's full Moon is known as the Hunter's Moon but it is also this year's Harvest Moon. The Harvest Moon is the name given to the full Moon that rises closest to the autumn equinox, traditionally a time for gathering crops. It also rises around sunset for several evenings in succession creating extra light for farmers working outside.

The equinox this year was on 22 September, and often the Harvest Moon occurs in the same month. In fact it's on 7 October and is the latest since 1987.

The Harvest Moon is perhaps the most well-known one of the year, thanks in part to the 1992 hit song 'Harvest Moon' by Neil Young.

Whilst this will be the brightest and largest full Moon of 2025 so far, you won't have to wait long until the next one, as we will see two more supermoons this year, on 5 November and 4 December.

Have you ever noticed that the Moon appears to be bigger when it is close to the horizon than when it is high in the sky? It doesn't actually change size as it rises higher, but our eyes perceive this differently.

Scientists do not fully understand why we interpret it this way, but one theory is that when we see the it in relation to other object such as trees, buildings or hills, it tricks our brains into thinking it is bigger than it really is.

The Moon does often look more reddish-orange nearer the horizon and this isn't a illusion. It's because the Sun's light travels through a longer portion of the Earth's atmosphere when the Moon is low in the sky.

The atmosphere scatters away more short-wave blue light, leaving the longer-wave reddish hues to project upon the Moon.

October Full Moon Names from different cultures Tugluvik (Inuit). Kentenha (Mohawk). Long Hair Moon (Hopi) Ten Colds Moon (Kiowa). Falling Leaves Moon (Arapaho). Corn Ripe Moon (Taos Native American). Hunter's Moon, Blood Moon (Neo-Pagan). Leaf Fall Moon (San Juan Native American). Blood Moon, Wine Moon (Mediaeval English). Blood Moon Falling :Full, Leaf Moon :Dark (Janic). Hunter's Moon, Travel Moon, Full Dying Grass Moon (Algonquin Native American/Colonia).

Other Moon names: Spirit Moon, Snow Moon, Shedding Moon, Winterfelleth (Winter Coming), Windermanoth (Vintage Month), Falling Leaf Moon, Moon of the Changing Season, White Frost moon

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On September 7, 2025, the night sky will dazzle us with an extraordinary event: the Full Harvest Moon, also called the Corn Moon, which will also be a supermoon and a total lunar eclipse—a rare “super blood moon.” This cosmic trifecta, occurring at the peak of the harvest season, is a moment of awe and wonder.

Known for its golden glow and cultural significance, the Harvest Moon will take on an even more dramatic hue as it transforms into a striking red during the eclipse. Here’s everything you need to know about this celestial event and how to celebrate it.

What Makes the September 7, 2025, Harvest Moon So Special? The Harvest Moon, the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox (September 22, 2025), is named for its historical role in illuminating late-night harvests, allowing farmers to gather crops like corn, pumpkins, and wheat before winter. Also called the Corn Moon in Native American traditions, it celebrates the ripening of corn, a vital staple crop. In 2025, this moon is extra special for three reasons:

1- Supermoon Magic: This Harvest Moon is a supermoon, meaning the moon is at its closest point to Earth (perigee), appearing up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. Its low position on the horizon will enhance the “moon illusion,” making it look even more massive and radiant.

2- Total Lunar Eclipse: On September 7, 2025, the moon will pass through Earth’s shadow, creating a total lunar eclipse. During totality, the moon will take on a deep red hue, earning the nickname “blood moon” due to sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere. According to CNET, this eclipse will be visible across parts of North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, with peak totality around
Why We Call It the Harvest Moon or Corn Moon The Harvest Moon name reflects its role in agricultural history, when farmers relied on its bright light to work late into the night. The Corn Moon name, rooted in Native American traditions, honors the corn harvest, a time of gratitude for the land’s abundance. This moon has many names across cultures—like the “Chrysanthemum Moon” in Chinese tradition or the “Barley Moon” in European folklore—each reflecting local harvests and seasonal shifts.

Fun Facts About the September 7, 2025, Harvest Moon

A Rare Triple Event: The combination of a supermoon, total lunar eclipse, and Harvest Moon is a rare occurrence, making this a must-see event for skywatchers.

Global Viewing: Per CNET, the eclipse will be visible in parts of North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, weather permitting. Check local times to catch the partial and total phases.

Cultural Resonance: The Corn Moon ties to Native American traditions, while the blood moon has inspired myths of transformation and renewal across cultures.

Learn Native American Names: Soaproot (Pomo). Corn Moon (Pueblo). Harvest moon (Hopi). Singing Moon (Celtic). Leaf fall Moon (Kiowa). Ripe Moon (San Juan). Maize Moon (Natchez). Acorns Moon (Wishram). Rice Moon (Anishnaabe). Hay Cutting Moon (Yuchi). Mulberry Moon (Choctaw). Deer Paw Moon (Omaha). Snow Goose Moon (Cree). Freshness Moon (Mohawk). Harvest Moon (Neo-Pagan). Harvest (Colonial American). Little Chestnut Moon (Creek). Corn Maker Moon (Abernaki). Drying Grass Moon (Arapaho). Yellow Leaf Moon (Assiniboine). Drying Grass Moon (Cheyenne). Autumn Moon (Passamaquoddy). Barley Moon (Mediaeval English). Calves Hair Growth Moon (Dakota). Yellow Leaf Moon(Taos Native American). Nut Moon, Black Butterfly Moon (Cherokee). Drying Grass Moon, Black Calve Moon, fScarlet Plum Moon (Sioux). Harvest Moon, Corn Moon, Barley Moon, Fruit Moon, Dying Grass Moon (Algonquin).

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The Sturgeon Moon: A Celestial Celebration of August’s Full MoonAs summer reaches its peak, the night sky gifts us with the enchanting Sturgeon Moon, the full moon of August. Named by Native American tribes, particularly those around the Great Lakes, this lunar event is steeped in history, culture, and natural wonder. Let’s dive into what makes the Sturgeon Moon so special, its origins, and how you can celebrate its brilliance in 2025.

What Is the Sturgeon Moon?The Sturgeon Moon is the name given to the full moon that typically occurs in August, though it can occasionally spill into late July depending on the lunar calendar. This year, in 2025, the Sturgeon Moon will illuminate the skies on August 8, reaching its peak at approximately 9:36 PM EDT (adjust for your local time zone). It’s a time when the moon appears at its fullest and brightest, casting a silvery glow over the Earth.The name “Sturgeon Moon” comes from the Algonquin tribes, who observed that this time of year was ideal for catching sturgeon, a large fish abundant in the Great Lakes and other major bodies of water. These fish were a vital food source, and the moon’s bright light aided nighttime fishing. Other tribes had their own names for this moon, such as the “Corn Moon” or “Barley Moon,” reflecting the harvest season, or the “Dog Moon” among the Sioux, tied to cultural stories.

Why Is It Special?The Sturgeon Moon holds both practical and symbolic significance. For ancient communities, it marked a time of abundance, when crops were ripening, and fish were plentiful. The bright moonlight provided extended hours for gathering resources, making it a beacon of prosperity. Today, it’s a moment to pause and connect with nature’s rhythms, reflecting on cycles of growth and gratitude.In 2025, the Sturgeon Moon is particularly noteworthy because it’s not a supermoon, contrary to some years when the moon is closer to Earth. However, its brilliance will still captivate stargazers. The moon will appear in the constellation Aquarius, adding an astrological layer for those who follow celestial influences, often associating Aquarius with innovation and community.

Why “Women's Moon”? In some modern spiritual and cultural contexts, the August full moon is occasionally called the Women’s Moon, though this name is less common and not widely documented in historical records. It may stem from contemporary interpretations linking the moon’s nurturing, cyclical energy to feminine archetypes or from specific community traditions that honor women’s roles during harvest season. While not as established as “Sturgeon Moon,” the term resonates with those who see full moons as times of empowerment, reflection, and connection to feminine energy.The 2025 Sturgeon Moon, appearing in the constellation Aquarius, aligns with the Leo-Aquarius astrological axis, blending bold self-expression (Leo) with community and innovation (Aquarius). This duality makes it a fitting time to celebrate both personal strength and collective support, themes often associated with the Women’s Moon concept.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance Across cultures, full moons are seen as times of culmination and clarity. The Sturgeon Moon is no exception. For many, it’s a moment to set intentions, release what no longer serves, or celebrate achievements. In Native American traditions, it was a time to give thanks for nature’s bounty. Modern spiritual practices often use this moon for rituals of gratitude, journaling, or meditation under its light.Astrologically, the August full moon often aligns with the Leo-Aquarius axis, blending Leo’s fiery, self-expressive energy with Aquarius’s forward-thinking, collective focus. This makes it a powerful time for balancing personal goals with community-oriented aspirations.

Fun Facts About the Sturgeon Moon Historical Names: Besides “Sturgeon Moon,” other names include “Green Corn Moon,” “Grain Moon,” or “Red Moon” (due to the reddish hue the moon can take on when low in the sky). Sturgeon Significance: Sturgeon are one of the oldest fish species, dating back over 200 million years, and can live up to 100 years or more! Global Celebrations: Many cultures mark August’s full moon with festivals, such as Raksha Bandhan in India or Obon in Japan, tying it to family and ancestral honoring.

The Sturgeon Moon is more than just a beautiful celestial event—it’s a reminder of our connection to nature, history, and the cycles that shape our lives. Whether you’re marveling at its glow, reflecting on your personal journey, or learning about the sturgeon’s legacy, this full moon invites us to pause and appreciate the world around us. So, on August 8, 2025, step outside, look up, and let the Sturgeon Moon inspire you.

August Full Moon Names From Native American and Other Different Cultures Joyful Moon (Hopi). First Acorns (Pomo). Ripen moon (Dakota). Dispute Moon (Celtic). Cutter Moon (Abernaki). Dog Days moon (Yuchi). Corn Silk Moon (Ponca). Harvest Moon (Chinese). Berry Moon (Anishnaabe). Women's Moon (Choctaw). Mulberries Moon (Natchez). Middle moon (Potawatomi). Freshness Moon (Mohawk). Yelow flower moon (Osage). Blackberry Moon (Wishram). Acorns Ripen Moon (Maidu). Wheat Cut Moon (San Juan). Lightning Moon (Neo Pagan). Black Cherries Moon (Sioux). Yellow Leaves moon (Kiowa).

Edible Corn Moon (Algonquin). Young Ducks Fly Moon (Cree). Black Cherries Moon (Assiniboine). Dog Day's Moon (Colonial American). Autumn Moon (Taos Native American). Corn Moon, Wort Moon (Medieval English). Geese Shedding Feathers Moon (Arapaho). Feather Shedding Moon (Passamaquoddy). Dispute Moon (Full Janic), Harvest Moon (Dark Janic). Big Harvest moon, Heat Moon, Big Rippening Moon (Creek). Fruit Moon, Drying Moon, Last Fruit Moon, Grain Moon (Cherokee). Red Moon,Sturgeon Moon, Green Corn Moon, Dog Days Moon (Algonquin).

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Experience the Magic of the 2025 Buck Moon: Your Guide to July’s Full Moon As the summer heat envelops Texas, the night sky prepares to dazzle us with a celestial spectacle—the Buck Moon! On Thursday, July 10, 2025, the full moon, known as the Buck Moon, will rise, marking the first full moon of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Whether you’re a stargazer, an astrology enthusiast, or simply someone who loves nature’s rhythms, this lunar event is not to be missed. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this stunning display, inspired by details from the El Paso Times.

What is the Buck Moon?The Buck Moon gets its name from Native American traditions, specifically tied to the time of year when male deer, or bucks, begin sprouting new antlers. This natural phenomenon symbolizes growth, renewal, and the vibrant energy of summer. The name, popularized by the Maine Farmer’s Almanac in the 1930s, reflects the seasonal cycles of wildlife in North America. Other cultures have their own names for July’s full moon, such as the Thunder Moon (for summer storms), Hay Moon (linked to the harvest season), or even Salmon Moon and Raspberry Moon in various Native American traditions.

In 2025, the Buck Moon holds extra significance. It coincides with Guru Purnima in India, a festival honoring spiritual teachers, and occurs under the astrological sign of Capricorn, bringing themes of ambition, discipline, and legacy-building. This moon is also notable for being the farthest full moon from the sun in 2025, as it rises just days after Earth’s aphelion (its farthest point from the sun).

When and Where to Watch the Buck Moon in Texas The Buck Moon will reach its peak illumination at 4:37 p.m. EDT (2:37 p.m. CDT) on July 10, 2025. While the moon won’t be visible at this exact moment in Texas due to its position below the horizon, the best time to catch it is shortly after sunset, when it rises in the southeast sky. In El Paso, sunset is expected around 8:15 p.m. MDT, with moonrise following at approximately 8:40 p.m. MDT. For precise moonrise times in your area, check a moonrise calculator like the one on TimeandDate.com.

This year’s Buck Moon will appear especially striking due to a phenomenon called the “Moon Illusion.” When the moon is low on the horizon, it looks larger and often takes on a golden or reddish hue due to Rayleigh scattering—the same effect that gives us vibrant sunsets. To maximize your viewing experience, find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, such as an open field, a hilltop, or an east-facing coastline. Avoid city lights to reduce light pollution, and check local weather forecasts for clear skies. For example, while New York City might face overcast conditions, cities like Chicago and Phoenix are expected to have fair visibility, and Los Angeles is predicted to have clear skies.

Why This Buck Moon is SpecialThe 2025 Buck Moon is more than just a beautiful sight—it’s a celestial event with unique characteristics. Due to a rare “Major Lunar Standstill” that occurs every 18.6 years, the moon’s orbit will be at its most extreme tilt relative to Earth’s equator, causing it to hang unusually low in the sky. This makes the Buck Moon appear even larger and more dramatic as it skims the horizon. Combined with its proximity to aphelion, this full moon will be the farthest from the sun all year, adding to its allure.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance The Buck Moon carries deep cultural meaning across the globe. In addition to its Native American roots, it’s known as the Claiming Moon, Wyrt Moon, Herb Moon, or Mead Moon in Celtic traditions, reflecting midsummer harvests and herbal gatherings. In India, the Buck Moon aligns with Guru Purnima, a time to honor teachers and spiritual guides. For many, this full moon is a moment to pause, reflect, and set intentions for personal growth.

Sources: El Paso Times, Space.com, Forbes, The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Newsweek, The Economic Times July Moon names from different cultures Raptor Moon (Hopi). Smoky Moon (Maidu). Ripe Moon (San Juan). Crane Moon (Choctaw). Claiming Moon (Celtic). Rose Moon (Neo Pagan). Peaches Moon (Natchez). Ducks Moult Moon (Cree). Ripening Moon (Mohawk). Grass Cutter Moon (Abernaki). Buffalo Bellow Moon (Omaha). Hungry Ghost Moon (Chinese). Ripe Squash Moon (Algonquin). Raspberry Moon (Anishnaabe). Salmon River moon (Wishram). Mead Moon (Medieval English). Middle Summer Moon (Ponca). Middle Summer Moon (Dakota). Red Berries moon (Assiniboine).

Young Corn Moon (Potawatomi). Buffalo Bellows Moon (Arapaho). Wild Red Cherries Moon (Sioux). Corn Popping moon (Winnebago). Ripening Moon (Passamaquoddy). Horse Moon, Ripe Moon (Apache). Summer Moon (Colonial American). Dropping Deer Horns Moon (Kiowa). Ripe Corn Moon, Hay Moon (Cherokee). Sun House Moon (Taos Native American). Claiming moon (Full Janic), Blessing Moon (Dark Janic). Little Harvest Moon, Blackberry Moon, Little Ripening Moon (Creek). Hay Moon, Buck Moon, Thunder Moon, Summer Moon (Algonquin).

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