November brings meteor showers, a bright supermoon, planet viewing and simple sky treats you won’t want to miss.
1. Moon Meets Saturn — A Dazzling Conjunction (Nov 1)
On the evening of November 1, the bright waxing gibbous Moon comes very close to the ringed planet Saturn in the sky. According to astronomy calendars, the Moon and Saturn will be just a few degrees apart in the constellations Pisces and Aquarius.
Why it’s special: Both objects are easily visible—so you don’t need advanced gear. A clear view facing south-east after sunset should show them together.
Best tip: Go out about 1–2 hours after sunset, find a clear horizon, and enjoy.
Location context: For mid-latitudes including Pakistan, the separation will be comfortable for binoculars or even naked-eye.
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2. Fireball Season Begins — Southern Taurid Meteor Shower Peak (Nov 4-5)
Between November 4 and 5, the Southern Taurids reach their peak. This shower is noted for slow meteors and occasional bright fireballs.
What to expect: Moderate number of meteors (~5-10 per hour) but some spectacular bright ones.
Moon interference: Unfortunately, the Moon will be nearly full, which reduces visibility of fainter meteors.
Viewing tip: Find a dark site, look away from the Moon’s glow, and watch after midnight for best chances.
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3. Super Beaver Moon Lights Up the Sky (Nov 5)
On November 5, the full Moon known as the “Beaver Moon” reaches its peak. Not only that, but it’s also a supermoon—when the Moon is closer to Earth and appears slightly larger and brighter.
Why it matters: A bright, beautiful Moon night—great for photography, for moonrise shots, and for just enjoying the lunar show.
Tip: Capture the Moon near horizon at moonrise (when it appears largest) for dramatic effect. But be aware its brightness will wash out faint stars.
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4. Northern Taurid Fireballs Return (Nov 11-12)
The Northern Taurids will reach their optimum in the nights of November 11–12. These are part of the same Taurid stream as the Southern branch and are known for occasional bright fireballs even though rates are modest.
Viewing strategy: After midnight, with the radiant in Taurus rising higher in the sky, you’ll maximize your chances.
Moon phase: Moonlight will still be present (~60% illumination), so choose a darker location for best effect.
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5. The Leonids Awaken — Classic Meteor Shower Peaks Under Dark Skies (Nov 17-18)
On the night of November 17–18 the famous Leonids reach their peak. This year they benefit from a thin Moon, making the skies darker and better for meteor spotting.
What to expect: Rates of perhaps 10-15 meteors per hour in a dark sky.
Viewing tip: After midnight is best, face anywhere in the sky (meteors may show up far from the radiant in Leo), find a dark spot, lie back, and be patient.
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6. Uranus at Opposition — A Distant World at Its Brightest (Nov 21)
On November 21, the distant planet Uranus reaches opposition—meaning Earth lies nearly between the Sun and Uranus, so the planet is fully illuminated and at its closest approach for the year.
Why view it: Uranus will appear at its brightest for the year (though still faint to the naked eye). Through binoculars or a small telescope it’s a fine target.
Tip: Find the planet in the constellation Aries, use binoculars, and aim for a clear dark evening.
More November Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss
Beyond the top six, here are other interesting events in November:
Moon near Neptune (Nov 2 & Nov 30): On Nov 2 the Moon passes near Neptune, and again Nov 30 for a faint and subtle pairing.
Moon near Pleiades (Nov 6): The Moon glides close to the bright star cluster Pleiades — easy for binoculars.
New Moon (Nov 20): The dark night around Nov 20 is perfect for observing faint deep-sky objects since no bright Moon interferes.
Orionids tail-end (early November): While the main peak may be earlier, the Orionids may still offer activity into early November.
November 2025 offers something for everyone—from meteor showers and supermoons to planet viewing. Whether you’re a casual sky watcher or a budding astrophotographer, planning ahead gives you the best chance to catch these moments. Use a clear horizon, dark location, and schedule. Don’t forget: weather and local light-pollution matter.
Enjoy your stargazing clear skies!