The next full moon in British skies is set to be the largest in more than 70 years.
The full moon on 14th November coincides with the point the moon is closest to the earth in its orbit, which means stargazers can look forward to a great supermoon.
Our moon will appear up to 14 per cent to 30 per cent larger – the closest the moon has been to earth since 1948.
Moongazers won’t be able to see a moon of its size again until November 2034.
Skywatchers will be rewarded a lunar close-up, the result of a coincidence between the moon’s elliptical orbit and the position of the Earth and Sun.
November’s full moon is known as the Beaver Moon, as it marks the time of year when hunters would set beaver traps before the waters froze over.
Hunters would use beavers for their furs through the winter. It will be easy to see in any place with clear skies across the northern hemisphere.
All you need to do is look up – you do not need a telescope.
Scientists have dismissed notions that the phenomenon could cause bizarre behaviour or natural disasters. Its most significant impact is likely to be on the tides.
Strange but true
The chances of being bitten by a dog are twice as high during a full moon according to a study at Bradford Royal Infirmary, which reviewed 1,621 cases of dog bite between 1997 and 1999.
The only month that can occur without a full moon is February.
The full moon may appear round, but is actually shaped like an egg with the pointed end facing earth.
The honeymoon is named after the full moon in June. As it fell between the planting and harvesting of crops this was traditionally the best month to get married.
