The biggest supermoon of the year will shine over NC soon. Here’s when
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- North Carolina will see the 2025 Beaver Moon, the year’s largest supermoon.
- Peak illumination occurs Nov. 5 at 8:19 a.m.; view evenings of Nov. 4-5.
- National Weather Service forecasts clear skies across Charlotte, Raleigh, western NC.
Stargazers in North Carolina can start preparing for a celestial show, with the “Beaver Moon” scheduled to rise over the state this week — and it’ll be the largest of the year.
The “Beaver Moon” is the name given to the full moon that appears in November, traditionally signaling the time when beavers begin to build their dams before the ground freezes, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
This year, it will be the biggest supermoon of 2025, appearing slightly larger and brighter than usual when it rises, Smithsonian Magazine reported.
Here’s what you need to know.
When can you see the beaver moon in NC?
The Beaver Moon will reach peak illumination on Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 8:19 a.m., according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
It will be below the horizon at that time, so be sure to look for it on the evenings of Tuesday, Nov. 4 and 5.
Supermoon weather
Clear conditions are expected in Charlotte, Raleigh and western North Carolina on Tuesday and Wednesday evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Tips for viewing the beaver moon
Here are some tips on how to view the moon from the NASA Moon Viewing Guide:
- Start with your eyes: Before you grab any binoculars or a telescope, take a look at the Moon with just your eyes and try spotting the main features.
- Use binoculars or a telescope for more detail: Once you’re familiar with the basics, binoculars or a small telescope can help you see craters and ridges, especially along the line where light meets shadow, called the “terminator.”
- Focus on texture: Binoculars show surface texture, while a telescope lets you pick out smaller details like crater chains, ridges and grooves.
This story was originally published November 4, 2025 at 3:28 PM with the headline "The biggest supermoon of the year will shine over NC soon. Here’s when."
