The year’s closest and brightest full moon — known as the Beaver Moon — will rise this week, giving skywatchers around the world a dazzling view of the night sky.

The so-called supermoon will occur on Wednesday, November 5, when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth, or perigee, at about 221,800 miles (356,980 kilometers) away. Because of its proximity, the moon will appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than a typical full moon, astronomers said.

This event is the second of three consecutive supermoons in 2025 — the first occurred in October and the third will follow in December.

The term “supermoon” was first coined in 1979 by American astrologer Richard Nolle, who used it to describe a new or full moon that occurs when the moon is at or near its closest approach to Earth in its orbit. The term has since been widely adopted by astronomers and the media to describe unusually large and bright full moons.

The November full moon is traditionally called the Beaver Moon in North America, marking the season when beavers are most active preparing for winter.

Experts say the best time to catch the supermoon is around moonrise, just after sunset, when it hangs low on the horizon and appears strikingly large due to the “moon illusion” effect. No special equipment is needed to enjoy the view — only a clear eastern horizon and good weather.

While a supermoon’s gravitational pull slightly increases tidal ranges, scientists note the difference is minimal and poses no significant impact on Earth.

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