Is It a Full Moon Tonight? Here’s When to See the Largest ‘Supermoon’ of 2025

The biggest and brightest full moon of the year — the Beaver Supermoon — is almost here. While the moon appears nearly full tonight, the true full phase will peak on the morning of November 5, 2025, making it the closest and largest supermoon of the year.

According to NASA and the Old Farmer’s Almanac, this full moon will reach perigee — the moon’s closest point to Earth — at just 221,817 miles away. For skywatchers, that means a brighter, larger moon that will dominate the night sky on both November 4 and 5.

When and Where to See the Beaver Supermoon

The full Beaver Moon will officially peak at 8:19 a.m. ET on November 5, but it will appear full on both the nights of November 4 and 5. The best time to view it is during moonrise each evening, when the glowing orb appears larger due to the “moon illusion.”

Skywatchers in the U.S. and across the world can expect clear viewing conditions in most regions. The moon’s close proximity will make it appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon, experts say. It will be the second of three consecutive full supermoons in 2025 — a rare celestial streak.

To catch the best view, step outside just after sunset and look toward the eastern horizon. Even though the full phase peaks in the morning, the moon will still appear nearly full through both nights.

Why This Full Moon Is Called the Beaver Moon

The name “Beaver Moon” dates back centuries to the time when beavers prepared their lodges for winter, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. In Native American and early colonial tradition, November marked the season for setting beaver traps before the swamps froze — hence the name.

This year’s Beaver Moon carries extra significance because of its timing with perigee, making it a supermoon — and the closest full moon of 2025. The moon’s average distance from Earth is about 238,855 miles, so this month’s event brings it about 17,000 miles closer than usual.

The Moon Illusion and Why It Looks So Big

As the Beaver Supermoon rises near the horizon, viewers will experience what’s known as the moon illusion — a psychological effect that makes the moon appear much larger than when it’s overhead. Scientists still don’t have a definitive explanation, but NASA notes that this optical trick has been observed for thousands of years.

To make the most of the experience, watch the moonrise from an open area with clear visibility — such as a beach, rooftop, or field — and include a reference point like trees or buildings for the most dramatic visual effect.

In short, the moon is not officially full tonight, but it’s nearly there. The Beaver Supermoon will shine brightest on November 5 — the largest and closest full moon of 2025.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is it a full moon tonight?

Not yet. The moon is in its waxing gibbous phase and will become full on the morning of November 5, 2025.

Q2: What time is the Beaver Supermoon at its peak?

The Beaver Supermoon peaks at 8:19 a.m. ET on November 5, though it will appear full on both November 4 and 5.

Q3: Why is it called a supermoon?

It’s called a supermoon because the full moon occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and brighter.

Q4: How close will the moon be to Earth?

The Beaver Supermoon will be just 221,817 miles from Earth — the closest full moon of 2025.

Q5: When is the next supermoon after this one?

The final full supermoon of 2025 will peak on December 4, marking the last of three consecutive supermoons this year.