Commentary: Everything you need to know about tonight’s Beaver Moon

“November’s Beaver Moon takes its name from Native American traditions, marking the time of year when beavers were busy building their lodges and preparing for winter.

“Tonight’s Beaver Moon (5th November) is also the biggest supermoon of 2025, when the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth in its orbit. It will shine brighter and appear slightly larger than usual, rising in the east just after sunset.

“Falling on Bonfire Night, it’s the perfect chance to pause between fireworks and enjoy one of nature’s brightest spectacles.

“A common misconception is that supermoons look dramatically bigger to the naked eye, but in reality, the difference is subtle – just a tiny bit larger than an average full moon. What makes them feel so spectacular is the timing. When a large, bright Moon appears low on the horizon, our brains exaggerate its size, a visual trick known as the ‘moon illusion’.

“Astronomically, the Beaver Moon isn’t different from any other full moon, but what makes it special is its timing and its story. It connects our modern experience of the night sky with centuries of seasonal traditions, reminding us that science and culture often share the same sky.”