A rare astronomical event is set to take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025. On this date, a new moon will reach its farthest point from Earth until the year 2043. This unique occurrence will transpire just four hours before the moon enters its new phase at 1:47 a.m. EST.
Significance of the 2025 New Moon
The new moon on November 20 will be the most distant since March 24, 2020, when it was approximately one mile closer to Earth. It will also be the last time until December 1, 2043, when the moon will again be eight miles farther away.
- Average Distance: The average distance from Earth to the moon is 238,855 miles (384,400 kilometers).
- Eclipses Impact Visibility: The new moon’s position between Earth and the sun obscures it during this event.
Understanding the Moon’s Orbit
The moon’s orbit around Earth is not a perfect circle but an ellipse, resulting in varying distances. This fluctuation is influenced by gravitational forces, particularly from the sun, making the extremes noticeable during new and full moons.
Closest and Farthest Points on November 20
On November 20, certain locations on Earth will experience varying distances to the moon:
| Location | Distance to Moon |
|---|---|
| Northeast Western Australia | 398,600 km (247,700 miles) |
| Just southeast of Bermuda | 411,300 km (255,600 miles) |
These measurements reflect the changing distance as the moon orbits Earth. Understanding these distances enhances appreciation for the upcoming November 2025 event and sets the stage for the subsequent “Christmas Supermoon” in December 2025.
The Path to 2043’s ‘Christmas Supermoon’
Following the new moon in November, enthusiasts can look forward to a supermoon on December 4, 2025. This event will see the full moon at its closest point to Earth, providing a spectacular sight just a few weeks after the new moon experience.
Mark your calendars for these celestial events as they pave the way for remarkable astronomical phenomena leading toward 2043.
