As 2025 draws to a close, skywatchers, photographers, and Moon lovers can look forward to a memorable finale — three Supermoons in a row this October, November, and December!
A Supermoon happens when a Full Moon coincides with the Moon's closest approach to Earth in its orbit (perigee), making it appear larger and brighter than usual. This guide highlights the final three Supermoons of 2025: their dates, folklore, and the best ways to enjoy their brilliance.
Mark Your Calendars!
Here are the final three Supermoon dates of 2025. Don't miss the chance to see them, especially during moonrise or moonset, and have your camera handy!
|
Date |
Name |
Peak Time (UTC) |
Highlights |
|
October 7, 2025 |
Harvest Supermoon |
~03:48 UTC |
Watch for a glowing "pumpkin" Supermoon low on the horizon during moonrise or moonset. |
|
November 5, 2025 |
Beaver Supermoon |
~13:19 UTC |
The closest and brightest Supermoon of the year is rising near the Pleiades star cluster. |
|
December 4, 2025 |
Cold Supermoon |
~23:15 UTC |
A frosty farewell to 2025's lunar spectacle. |
🎃🌽 October 7: The Harvest Supermoon
The trilogy begins on October 7 with the Harvest Supermoon, the Full Moon nearest to the Autumnal equinox (September 22). Traditionally, moonlight helped farmers extend their harvest hours, giving rise to its name. This extra moonlight signals the season's shift, illuminating fields as summer yields to fall.
At perigee, the Moon will be about 224,599 miles (361,458 km) from Earth, appearing ~7–9% larger and up to ~15% brighter than a typical Full Moon. It reaches peak illumination on October 7 at 03:48 UTC (11:48 p.m. EDT, October 6). After sunset, look east for a glowing orange "pumpkin" Moon rising in the east. Thanks to the Moon illusion, it will seem even bigger when near the horizon.
🐿️🍂 November 5: The Beaver Supermoon
November's Supermoon is the Beaver Moon. This name comes from Native American and European naming practices, marking the season when beavers retreat to their lodges and trappers set their final traps before Winter. This year, the Beaver Supermoon will rise near the Pleiades star cluster in Taurus, offering a striking sight in the crisp Autumn sky, though its glare may wash out the cluster's faint stars for the naked eye.
At perigee, the Moon will be 221,817 miles (356,980 km) from Earth. This Supermoon is the closest and brightest full Moon of 2025, appearing ~8% larger and up to ~16% brighter than the average Full Moon. It reaches peak illumination on November 5, at 13:19 UTC (8:19 a.m. EST).
❄️🎄 December 4: The Cold Supermoon
The trilogy concludes on December 4 with the Cold Supermoon. This finale arrives just weeks before the Winter solstice, symbolizing the onset of long, frosty nights. Its icy brilliance casts a silvery light over snowy landscapes, inviting peace and holiday cheer as the year draws to a close. Bundle up and enjoy the Full Moon's final farewell to 2025.
At perigee, the Moon will be about 221,965 miles (357,219 km) from Earth, appearing ~7–8% larger and roughly ~15% brighter than an average Full Moon. Peak illumination occurs on December 4 at 23:15 UTC (6:15 p.m. EST).
Observing Tips
To make the most of these celestial events:
- Check local times: Look up moonrise and moonset times for your area. Mobile apps like SkyPortal Powered by SkySafari™ (included with every Celestron telescope purchase!) make planning easy.
- Pick your spot: Find open spaces with a clear view east (moonrise) or west (moonset). If possible, avoid city lights.
- Use the horizon: Trees, hills, or buildings can enhance the Moon illusion, making the Moon look even larger.
- Bring optical gear: If you have them, binoculars or a small telescope reveal craters and maria, especially before the Moon climbs higher and surface details are washed out. Photographers may want a tripod for sharper images.
- Dress for the season: Autumn nights can be chilly, so layers are your friend.
- Don't forget the naked-eye view: Sometimes the simplest way to enjoy the Moon is also the most breathtaking.
Final Thoughts
Grab a blanket and some hot cocoa, invite a friend or neighbor, and step outside to enjoy the last three consecutive Supermoons of the year. Illuminating the landscape with a crisp, radiant glow, they bid farewell to 2025 in spectacular fashion. Whether you're a seasoned skywatcher or just love looking up at the night sky, this rare lunar trifecta is too exceptional to miss.