Beaver Moon Supermoon to Light Up California Sky on Wednesday, Nov. 5

Missed last month’s supermoon? Californians get a second chance: the Beaver Moon, a supermoon, will be visible on Wednesday, Nov. 5. This is the second in a run of three consecutive supermoons, offering a striking sight for stargazers and anyone with a clear view of the night sky.

What is a supermoon?

According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when a full moon is at or near perigee, the point in its orbit closest to Earth. Although the Moon remains tens of thousands of miles away, it can appear noticeably larger and brighter than at other times.

Timing

The Beaver Moon reached peak illumination at 5:19 a.m. PST, per the Old Farmer’s Almanac. NASA notes the Moon appears full for a couple of days, so observers will still have time after the peak to view the spectacle.

Moonrise times in selected California cities (evening of Wednesday, Nov. 5)

• Eureka: 5:00 p.m.
• Fresno: 4:54 p.m.
• Los Angeles: 4:55 p.m.
• Palm Springs: 4:49 p.m.
• Redding: 4:54 p.m.
• Riverside: 4:52 p.m.
• Salinas: 5:02 p.m.
• San Diego: 4:54 p.m.
• San Francisco: 5:02 p.m.
• Stockton: 4:57 p.m.
• Ventura: 4:59 p.m.
• Victorville: 4:50 p.m.
• Visalia: 4:53 p.m.

Times are from Time and Date and reflect approximate local moonrise times for the evening in each city.

Why is it called the Beaver Moon?

The name Beaver Moon is a traditional November name noted by the Old Farmer’s Almanac. It historically coincided with the time when beavers prepare for winter and when trappers set beaver traps during North American fur-trading seasons.

Additional context

A full lunar cycle, which includes the eight major moon phases from new moon to full moon and back, lasts about 29.5 days, according to NASA. That cycle generally produces 12 full moons per year, with an occasional 13th full moon depending on calendar alignment, as explained by Space.com. NASA also notes supermoons typically occur three to four times a year and often appear in consecutive months — for example, 2025 will feature supermoons in both November and December.

Viewing tips

• Find a spot with a clear horizon and minimal artificial light for the most dramatic view.
• Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to appreciate the Moon’s details. A wide-angle lens with foreground interest (trees, skyline, or mountains) makes striking photos.
• Remember that full-moon photography can wash out surface detail; underexpose slightly or photograph when the Moon is near the horizon for better color and context.
• Check local weather and cloud cover before heading out.

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Sources: NASA, Old Farmer’s Almanac, Time and Date, Space.com. Originally reported by Paris Barraza for the Palm Springs Desert Sun.