This Wednesday night, stargazers will have the opportunity to witness the closest supermoon of the year, enhancing the moon’s appearance in the night sky. The phenomenon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, resulting in a moon that can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter compared to the faintest lunar phases, as noted by NASA.
This November supermoon marks the second in a series of three for the year, and it is remarkable for its proximity; the moon will come within approximately 222,000 miles (357,000 kilometers) of our planet. Such closeness can lead to slightly elevated tides, according to astronomer Lawrence Wasserman from Lowell Observatory, though these changes are typically subtle and barely noticeable.
Observers do not need any special equipment to enjoy the supermoon, provided the skies are clear. However, distinguishing the increased size without the aid of comparisons can be challenging. “The difference is most obvious when looking at it alongside other images or observations,” explained Shannon Schmoll, director of Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University.
While supermoons occur several times each year, this particular event follows one from October and precedes the last supermoon of the year scheduled for December. Each occurrence offers a fantastic opportunity for both casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts alike to engage with the cosmos.
As interest in celestial events continues to grow, this supermoon serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our moon’s orbit and its impact on both our tides and the visual spectacle it provides. Whether through photos shared online or through personal observations, the supermoon represents a unique moment to connect with the night sky.
Original Source: https://www.dailysabah.com/life/closest-supermoon-of-year-will-shine-brightest-wednesday-night/news
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Publish Date: 2025-11-03 19:09:00
