On September 17, skygazers are in for a special treat as the Harvest Moon, a partial lunar eclipse, and a supermoon will all be visible in the night sky. The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox and traditionally marks the time for farmers to harvest their crops. The upcoming partial lunar eclipse will start at 8:41 PM EDT, with the Moon partially obscured by Earth’s shadow. By 10:13 PM, the Moon will be fully in Earth’s shadow, turning a deep orange color and providing a visually stunning display for viewers.
The supermoon, which occurs when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth, will make the Moon appear larger and brighter than usual. This particular supermoon is the second of the year and is set to be the closest, largest, and brightest of the year. Its presence in the night sky will surely captivate stargazers and moon enthusiasts around the world.
This special full Moon goes by many names, such as the Corn Moon, Fruit Moon, or Barley Moon, depending on different cultural traditions and seasonal markers. It is not just an astronomical event but a global cultural affair, with various festivals and celebrations taking place around the world, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival in East Asia and Chuseok in Korea. The Moon serves as a unifying force, reminding us of our shared humanity under the same sky.
So, take a moment to look up at the Moon, appreciate its beauty, and contemplate the wonders of the universe. Whether you’re participating in a festival, stargazing with loved ones, or simply admiring the night sky, remember that we all share the same sky and the same Moon above us. Happy Moon-gazing!