Guide to observing the harvest supermoon.

Guide to observing the harvest supermoon.


The last supermoon of 2023 will illuminate the night sky this evening with the end of September approaching.

The upcoming full moon in September, also referred to as the harvest moon, will mark the end of four consecutive supermoons.

What exactly is a supermoon?

NASA states that the supermoon phenomenon happens when the moon is at its closest orbit to Earth while also being in its full phase. The upcoming supermoon will be roughly 224,854 miles away from Earth, although the moon’s distance can range from 221,457 miles to 252,712 miles.

supermoon will be about 5% larger and 13% brighter than the average full moon in 2023.

The upcoming supermoon in August will be 5% larger and 13% brighter than the average full moon in 2023.super blue moon

This was the largest of the year.

When is the best time to view the “Harvest” supermoon?

The supermoon is expected to appear in the sky from Thursday evening to Friday morning. It will be at its brightest at 5:58 a.m. EDT on Friday, September 29th, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.

The moonrise calendar for the U.S. Navy provides precise timings for your specific location.

What is the reason behind naming this full moon the “Harvest” moon?

According to NASA, the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox is known as the “Harvest” moon.

The name “Harvest” moon comes from the Farmer’s Almanac, as September is an important time for harvesting crops in the Northern Hemisphere. Occasionally, the moon may be referred to as the “Harvest” moon in October.

The two full moons in August were nicknamed the “Sturgeon Moon” and “Blue Moon.” The full moon in October will be known as the “Hunter’s Moon.”

Ways to capture images of the supermoon

According to NASA, simply step outside and direct your gaze upward to observe the moon. Utilizing a telescope or binoculars can enhance the view and provide a clearer view of the moon’s surface.

NASA recommends using a stabilizing tool for your phone or camera if you want to capture photos of the moon. It’s important to turn off the flash and adjust the focus of the camera specifically on the moon, rather than the entire sky. Setting a timer can also prevent any movement that may affect the quality of the photo. If you have a telescope, you can also take pictures through its eyepiece.

NASA offers a comprehensive online guide for lunar photography.

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Source: cbsnews.com