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Supermoon in November: The sky is brighter than ever!
Find out everything about the supermoon on November 5, 2025, its astronomical significance and the fascinating differences from Earth.
Supermoon in November: The sky is brighter than ever!
On November 5, 2025, the sky over Cologne presents an impressive spectacle: the full moon, also known as the super moon, shimmers particularly bright and large. This evening the moon is only 356,833 kilometers from Earth, significantly closer than the average distance of around 384,400 kilometers. This makes this supermoon the largest of the year, as the distance at perigee, the point of closest proximity to our planet, is almost 30,000 kilometers less than at apogee, where the moon is at its maximum distance. [MDR] reports that the differences in the Earth-Moon distance can vary by up to 7%.
The term “supermoon” was first coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979. According to his definition, a supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its closest proximity to Earth during a full or new moon. Nolle originally set a distance of 367,000 kilometers for this, which in practice would have led to numerous supermoons per year. However, the definition has been gradually adjusted so that a minimum distance of around 358,000 to 360,000 kilometers now applies. Nevertheless, the term is considered esoteric in scientific astronomy because its use is unnecessary. [Wikipedia] provides further insights on this topic.
Physical aspects and perception
In the Cologne city area, residents can expect more than just a big moon on this day. In the media, the apparent diameter of the supermoon is perceived to be around 7% larger, which is analogous to a two-euro coin compared to a one-euro coin. Nevertheless, the actual difference in size often goes unnoticed purely by eye. However, the perspective of moonrise, also known as the moon illusion, can greatly influence this assessment. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in winter, when the moon rises quickly. [Tagesschau] points out that the November full moon appears about 30% brighter than the smallest full moon of the year.
There are at least four supermoons per year, but they are often only noticeable upon closer inspection. Historically, the full moon in November 2016 was remarkably close at 356,520 kilometers. That's why many people in Cologne knew him as particularly impressive. In contrast, the next supermoon will be in December 2025, which will also be a full moon, but will be 130 kilometers away than the November full moon.
An astronomical event for the city
So it will remain exciting when the supermoon rises on the night of November 5th. Whether you are an avid amateur astronomer or just want to spend a romantic evening under the light of the moon, this sight is an ideal event for everyone. Don't forget to take a look upstairs!