Prepare for a truly exceptional celestial display above the Mojave Desert and the shiny Sin City streets. The full moon arriving on Wednesday, November 5, is no ordinary event. It’s a Supermoon, and specifically, the closest and most brilliant one we will witness in 2025. You won’t want to miss this stunning spectacle!
What makes it a Supermoon?
A Supermoon is the result of astronomical timing. It occurs when a full moon phase coincides almost exactly with perigee – the point in the moon’s elliptical path when it is nearest to Earth. Due to this proximity, the moon can appear approximately 7% larger and 16% brighter than an average full moon.
This month’s event is especially notable because it will be the closest of 2025, positioned at a distance of around 221,817 miles from our planet. For an added visual treat, observe the moon when it is low on the horizon. Then, an optical trick known as the “moon illusion” makes the lunar disk appear even more dramatic.
The significance of the Beaver Moon
November’s full moon is historically known as the Beaver Moon. Its name originates from various Native American tribes and early American settlers. It marks the time in late autumn when beavers finished securing their lodges for the cold winter ahead. For predators, this was also the optimal time to collect the beavers’ thick pelts. In other traditions, such as Celtic lore, the last full moon before the December solstice is sometimes referred to as the Mourning Moon.
When and where to see the Supermoon in Las Vegas
While the precise moment of peak brightness will occur at 5:19 AM on November 5th, you do not need to set an early alarm to appreciate the view. Because moon phases transition slowly, stargazers can enjoy the powerful illumination throughout the evening of November 4th and into the early morning of November 5th.
For the clearest, most magnificent view, the best practice is to venture away from the light pollution of the Strip. Optimal viewing locations include desert roads or dark-sky areas near the valley. Enjoy the dazzling show!