This week, San Franciscans can look forward to a particularly dazzling full moon. On Wednesday, November 5, the second super moon of the year will rise above the city, perfect for those who love to stargaze. While super moons aren’t rare, they are still some of the biggest and brightest moons of the year.
What is a supermoon?
A supermoon is a term coined to describe when a full moon coincides with the moon’s orbit at its closest point to Earth. When the moon is closest to Earth, it will appear larger and brighter than at other points in its orbit. The moon’s closest point to Earth is called the perigee, 226,000 miles away, and the farthest point is the apogee, 251,000 miles from Earth. The moon’s orbit differs slightly depending on the sun and Earth’s orbit, so different super moons can vary somewhat.
When is the next supermoon?
The next supermoon is on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, starting at 5:19 am in San Francisco. The last supermoon of 2025 will be on December 4.
Where to see the supermoon in San Francisco
The weather in San Francisco can change quickly, and cloudy nights are common in the city. Unfortunately, the forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday night shows a chance of rain. If we do happen to have clear skies or a break in the clouds, there are plenty of scenic spots to see the moon.
We recommend going somewhere with a good vantage point, such as Alamo Square Park, Twin Peaks, or Corona Heights. These will offer you beautiful views of the city, along with a clear view of the sky. Ina Coolbrith Park is another lovely spot, with beautiful views of the city and a quiet, secluded area.