Supermoon tonight: The biggest full moon of the year is shining!

Supermoon tonight: The biggest full moon of the year is shining!

On November 5th, 2025 the time has come: the moon reaches its closest point to the earth, the so-called perigee, and appears as the largest full moon of the year. Anyone watching the sky can look forward to a spectacular sight, as the supermoon will not only be around 7 percent larger, but also around 15 percent brighter than an average full moon. Loud NDR The distance between the Earth and the moon this evening is around 357,000 kilometers. For comparison: At the last full moon on October 7th, this distance was around 361,500 kilometers.

The fascination with the supermoon comes not only from its size, but also from the optical illusion that sometimes occurs as the moon approaches the horizon. This effect, known as the lunar illusion, makes the celestial body appear even more impressive. The biggest eye-catcher will only be visible from 4 p.m.

What is a Supermoon?

A supermoon is essentially a full or new moon that coincides with perigee, the closest point to Earth. The term “supermoon” was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 and has no precise astronomical definition. In fact, there is no accepted scientific basis linking a supermoon to increased risks of earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. This reports Wikipedia.

Technically, the supermoon is also known as Perigee Syzygy because the moon's influence is more pronounced in this constellation. Supermoons occur in series, usually three to four times a year. The upcoming supermoon is the second of three in 2025, the last one will take place on December 5th. So it's an exciting time for those interested in astronomy!

Tides and other effects

The gravitational pull of the moon and sun also influences the tides. Tidal forces are strongest during full moons and new moons, which can result in larger tides. This can, for example, increase beach erosion, which is particularly relevant in coastal areas. The moon, with an elliptical orbit around the Earth, reaches an average distance of about 382,900 kilometers, which increases by about four centimeters annually, the site explains Time and Date.

For everyone who likes to stand under the sky and observe the wonders of nature, the supermoon is a unique event that not only captivates those interested in astronomy. So mark the evening of November 5th in your calendars! With his bright face and impressive size, he will definitely be an eye-catcher. Have fun stargazing!