NEW YORK (AP) – On Wednesday night, the moon will appear slightly larger and brighter as it reaches the closest supermoon of the year. This astronomical event is expected to capture the attention of skywatchers, as the moon's proximity to Earth enhances its visibility and size.
The orbit of the moon around the Earth is not a perfect circle, resulting in varying distances between the two celestial bodies. A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the time it is nearest to Earth in its elliptical orbit. NASA reports that during such an event, the moon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter compared to the faintest moon witnessed throughout the year.
In November 2025, this supermoon will mark the second occurrence of three supermoons within the year and is noteworthy for being the closest. The moon will come within just under 222,000 miles (357,000 kilometers) of Earth, drawing excitement from both amateur and experienced astronomers alike.
According to astronomer Lawrence Wasserman of Lowell Observatory, tides may experience a slight increase during a supermoon due to the moon’s increased gravitational pull. However, he notes that the difference in tide levels is typically minimal and may not be easily perceptible to the general public.
Viewing the supermoon does not require any special equipment, provided the skies are clear. Nevertheless, discerning the difference in size with the naked eye can be challenging. Shannon Schmoll, the director of Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University, explained that the variation in size is most evident when comparing it to images or observations of other moons.
Supermoons occur a few times each year. The supermoon in October already made headlines for making the moon appear somewhat larger, while the supermoon in December will be the last of 2025. The continued occurrences of supermoons offer a remarkable opportunity for lunar enthusiasts to experience the moon’s grandeur in its various phases.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department is supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Overall, the November supermoon presents a unique chance for viewers to observe a majestic celestial phenomenon. Whether through photographs or direct observation, people are encouraged to appreciate the enhanced beauty of the moon during this supermoon event.
