As the nights grow longer, stargazers can look forward to a series of mesmerizing celestial events. Beginning in October 2025, the full moons will appear significantly larger and brighter. Key dates to note are **October 7**, **November 5**, and **December 4**. This astronomical phenomenon, known as a supermoon, occurs when a full moon aligns with the moon’s closest approach to Earth.
A supermoon can appear up to **14% larger** and nearly **30% brighter** than a regular full moon, which occurs when the moon is at its farthest point, referred to as a micromoon. These spectacular displays typically take place three to four times each year and often occur in succession.
On **November 5**, observers will witness the closest supermoon of 2025. This event is particularly notable because the next supermoon will not occur until **December 24, 2026**, making Christmas Eve exceptionally bright for those celebrating under the night sky.
The effects of supermoons extend beyond their visual allure. The gravitational pull from the moon’s proximity to Earth can lead to higher ocean tides, commonly known as “king tides.” This term describes the heightened water levels along coastlines during supermoons, demonstrating the moon’s influence on Earth’s natural systems.
As the “spooky season” approaches, the full moon in early October is expected to shine a bit more brightly than usual. This increase in luminosity is simply due to the moon’s closer position to our planet. Stargazers and casual observers alike can take advantage of these upcoming lunar events to appreciate the beauty and impact of the supermoon phenomenon.
With these celestial highlights on the horizon, it is an excellent time for communities to engage in stargazing activities and explore the science behind this captivating natural event.