Witness the October Supermoon: A Celestial Spectacle Awaits
As we approach the evening of October 17, 2024, celestial enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike should prepare for an extraordinary lunar event: the full Hunter’s Moon, which is also the closest supermoon of the year. This dazzling display will light up the autumn sky, captivating those who take the time to look up at dusk.
The full Hunter’s Moon is expected to reach its peak fullness at 7:26 AM ET on October 18, but for the best views, people are encouraged to step outside on the evening of the 17th. The moon will be fully illuminated and is expected to appear round and luminous throughout the night and into the morning hours of the 18th. NASA has reported that this supermoon will be particularly striking, appearing approximately 222,095 miles away from Earth—making it the closest full moon of 2024. Typically, the moon orbits at an average distance of about 238,855 miles from our planet. During supermoons, when the full moon coincides with its perigee, or closest approach, it can look up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than at its furthest point.
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The name “Hunter’s Moon” comes from a time when indigenous peoples utilized the bright lunar light to hunt after the harvest, as the fields would have been cleared and game easier to spot. This full moon occurs after the autumnal equinox and signifies the transition of seasons, serving as a reminder of the impending winter. In addition to its historical significance, October's moon holds various names across cultures, such as the “Moon of the First Frost” from the Potawatomi nation or the “Falling Leaves Moon” from the Anishinaabe people.
During this supermoon, stargazers will have the chance to catch a glimpse of other celestial wonders, including the planet Jupiter, the red giant star Aldebaran, and the star cluster Pleiades, all potentially visible around the same time. If you're located in an area with minimal light pollution, the view will be even more spectacular. The moon’s rise, especially when viewed near the horizon shortly after sunset, often gives it a warm orange hue, a visual treat that many people associate with the Hunter’s Moon.
Additionally, this lunar event is part of a series of remarkable celestial occurrences this October. Just after this supermoon, Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) will also grace our skies, appearing in the west after sunset, providing another opportunity for stargazing enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of the universe.
As we prepare for this enchanting display, remember to find a suitable spot—perhaps along a lakefront or open field—to soak in the beauty of this remarkable supermoon. Whether you're an avid astronomer or just someone looking to enjoy a night under the stars, the Hunter's Moon promises a magical experience that is sure to inspire wonder and appreciation for the night sky. So grab your friends and family, head outside, and let nature's brilliant light shine on you.
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