(dc) frosty beaver

From my friend Gordon:

The next full is on Saturday, November 24, 2007, at 9:30 a.m. EST. It will appear full for the three days around this time. Two nights later, on Monday, November 26, the nearly full Moon will appear close to Mars, which is quite bright now (as described in the article below). Mars will be at its brightest in December.

This is the Full Beaver Moon. This was the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Another interpretation suggests that the name Full Beaver Moon comes from the fact that the beavers are now actively preparing for winter. This full Moon is also sometimes referred to as the Frosty Moon.

------ Forwarded Message
From: NASA Science News
Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2007 20:30:33 -0600
To: NASA Science News
Subject: Mars Doubles in Brightness

NASA Science News for November 21, 2007

During the past month, Mars has doubled in brightness and now it is putting a nice show for backyard stargazers. A good night to look is Nov. 26th when Mars has an eye-catching close encounter with the Moon.

FULL STORY at

http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2007/21nov_marsdoubles.htm