Winter moon and stars

The nearly full moon in the eastern sky as seen from the "ridge" in Ridgecrest.

Photo by Patricia Hale

By Patty Hale

Clearing night skies allowed me to get this shot as the moon rose through the trees.

Just looking at it makes me cold. According to the Farmer's Almanac, the Full Moon in November is referred to as 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. It is sometimes also referred to as the Frosty Moon."

For those who are interested in seeing the night sky through "Big" telescopes, the Seattle Astronomical Society has regularly scheduled Free Star Parties at Paramount School Park. The next scheduled party is Saturday, December 22, starting at dusk in Paramount School Park, 15300 8th Ave NE.

Look at the stars, moons and planets through really big telescopes brought to the Park by the Seattle Astronomical Society. 

SAS members will explain what you are viewing. Wear warm clothes and bring a friend.

Total cloud cover or rain cancels the party.