Sky-gazers could be in for a treat Sunday night into early Monday morning as the celestial bodies align just right to create the full beaver moon along with an early morning lunar eclipse.
Hardcore star-gazers can set their alarms for 4:30 a.m. when the full moon, nicknamed the beaver moon, will pass through the partial shadow of the Earth for a penumbral lunar eclipse, according to NASA. The eclipse will create a slight dimming of the moon and may be difficult to notice without a telescope, NASA said.
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the beaver moon earned its name from Native American tribes and European settlers who set beaver traps around this time of year to secure a warm supply of furs for the impending winter months.
The Full "Beaver" Moon will rise on Sunday night, but it won't be as bright as a normal full moon: https://t.co/fy2Nscg8wz pic.twitter.com/nHlDQCnSwP
— AccuWeatherAstronomy (@AccuAstronomy) November 29, 2020
Sky oglers can also look forward to the upcoming Geminid Meteor Shower, which NASA classified as one of the best meteor showers of the year. The meteor shower is expected to be active from Dec. 4 through Dec. 20, peaking on the night of Dec. 13 into the morning of Dec.14.
Ideal viewing conditions include a dark place, clear skies and an unobstructed view of the sky, NASA said.
