There’s nothing quite like a celestial spectacle gracing the skies. Earlier this year, Joburgers were treated to a breathtaking total lunar eclipse, that unforgettable “Blood Moon” moment when the moon slowly slipped into Earth’s shadow and emerged in deep, coppery red. For one night, the city paused; people stepped into gardens and onto balconies, phones and telescopes pointed skyward, caught in collective awe.
This Wednesday, 5 November, we get another chance to lean into that sense of wonder as the Beaver Supermoon rises over Johannesburg.
Where can I view the Supermoon from in Johannesburg?
The Melville Koppies East nature reserve is hosting a Supermoon Viewing from 6 pm to 8:30 pm, a relaxed, community-style evening where you can watch the moon at its brightest and closest point to Earth this year. Bring your camera, a blanket (don't forget a jacket), and your curiosity; it’s the perfect midweek reset, right under the stars.
So, what exactly is a Supermoon? It’s when the moon’s orbit brings it closest to Earth (known as perigee), making it appear larger and brighter than usual, sometimes by as much as 14%. It’s one of those subtle natural phenomena that you feel more than you understand: a little more glow in the night, a little more stillness in the air.
And why the name Beaver Moon? The November full moon got its name from Native American and early European traditions, it marked the time when beavers were busiest building their dams before the winter freeze. While we don’t have any beavers around Joburg, these old naming traditions still have a way of grounding us, reminding us that nature’s rhythms still hum quietly beneath our city’s buzz.
At Melville Koppies, this event combines that natural beauty with a dash of Joburg spirit. Expect sweeping views, the glow of the moon over the ridge, and a friendly crowd of stargazers. MSI Security will be on-site, and you can access the viewing via the 9th Avenue entrance in Melville.
The year’s winding down, the nights are warm again, and this is your sign to look up, to pause, breathe, and marvel at the small miracles still visible above the city lights.
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