Mental Floss

Catch a Partial Lunar Eclipse of the Micro Beaver Moon this November

Michele Debczak|
PHOTO: MICHAEL KAPPELER /GETTY IMAGES. ILLUSTRATION: JUSTIN DODD/MENTAL FLOSS
PHOTO: MICHAEL KAPPELER /GETTY IMAGES. ILLUSTRATION: JUSTIN DODD/MENTAL FLOSS | PHOTO: MICHAEL KAPPELER /GETTY IMAGES. ILLUSTRATION: JUSTIN DODD/MENTAL FLOSS

So far, we've been treated to a total lunar eclipse and three consecutive super moons in 2021. This November, the satellite will put on its last big show of the year for its spectators on Earth. A full, micro beaver moon will showcase a deep, partial lunar eclipse in the early morning hours of November 19. To see the event in person, here's what you need to know.

What Is a Micro Beaver Moon?

A beaver moon is the name given to the first (and usually the only) full moon of November. Historically, the month is the last chance to stock up on beaver furs before winter in North America. After it likely originated with the Algonquin people, European colonists adopted the nickname for November's full moon.

A micro moon is the opposite of a super moon. It occurs when the moon reaches the farthest point in its orbit from Earth, making it appear especially tiny in the night sky. November's full micro moon may be smaller than what you're used to seeing, but when it's fully illuminated it will still be easy to spot.

What Is a Partial Lunar Eclipse?

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth falls perfectly between the moon and the sun. This casts a shadow across the moon's surface, bathing it in a dark, reddish hue. A total lunar eclipse happens when the moon is fully enveloped in the Earth's shadow. This won't be the case on November 19, but the partial eclipse will be so deep that you may not notice the difference. According to timeanddate.com, the phenomenon qualifies as an "almost" total lunar eclipse.

When to See the Partial Eclipse of the Micro Beaver Moon

To catch this year's partial eclipse, look up early in the morning of Friday, November 19. Around 1 a.m. ET, the moon will start to darken, and just after 4 a.m., the eclipse will reach its peak. The spectacle will be visible throughout North America, but depending on where you live, the moon may be partially or fully behind the horizon for part of it.

Lunar eclipses always occur within two weeks of a solar eclipse. After looking up for this event, you can expect a total eclipse of the sun on December 4.

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