October also marks the start of supermoon season. Full moon illumination of the autumnal harvest moon, as seen shining down on Edmonds beneath crisp fall air. This phenomenon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth, creating a captivating spectacle for skywatchers. Looking forward to the next supermoon on November 5th! Save the date for December 4, when you’ll have another opportunity to see this once-in-a-lifetime celestial occurrence.
That’s where the term supermoon jumped into the equation to sensationalize the story, as usual. Additionally, the term supermoon refers to when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth, known as perigee. The Moon isn’t really getting smaller or larger at all. In fact, when it comes close to Earth, it’s larger and brighter to us. This effect can create a visual marvel for observers on the ground, leading many to appreciate its beauty during this season.
Understanding the Supermoon
Supermoon, by the way, is not a technical designation, but instead a catchy term for this special alignment. Our Moon doesn’t orbit Earth in a circle at all. Because of its highly elliptical path, it sometimes approaches Earth and at others is much farther away. At its closest approach, the supermoon phenomenon comes into focus, drawing the awe of individuals across the globe.
On November 5, the full moon will occur at 12:20 AM AEDT, with the Moon reaching its closest point just a few hours earlier. This full moon will be exact at 10 AM AEDT on December 5. It will be closely followed by a markup on December 4. These events bring thousands of opportunities for hardcore fans and new-comers alike. Only then can they experience all of the Moon’s beauty in all of its rich glory.
The Harvest Moon’s Significance
The harvest moon has special meaning in the northern hemisphere. It is usually associated with the full moon in October and represents a period when most crops are gathered in. The phrase “harvest moon” draws attention to agrarian weather cycles and traditions in rural areas of most countries in the northern hemisphere. Historically, farmers have relied on the moon’s natural light to extend their working hours in the crucial harvest season.
The Moon names we use in The Old Farmer’s Almanac come from Native American, colonial American, or other traditional North American sources passed down through generations. – The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s website.
Although tonight is not a full moon, the sky is still expected to provide a spectacular display. With the Moon unusually close to Earth at the moment, it’s an especially dazzling sight for stargazers! Except in its latter phase, it can still be downright amazing.
The Science Behind the Illusion
The appearance of the Moon can at times be heavily affected by atmospheric conditions. As the Moon’s light moves through the thicker atmosphere, it will often appear orange from atmospheric scattering. This effect is most striking when the Moon is low on the horizon, resulting in a beautiful optical illusion.
NASA explains that this unique coloration results from “the Moon’s light travels a longer distance through the atmosphere.” They add that images of the Moon may look exaggerated. This unusual effect is due to a phenomenon known as the “moon illusion.”
In other words, the Moon looks bigger in those photos because it’s a zoomed-in view. – NASA.
Together, these factors will combine to make the supermoon especially beautiful. They add to its beauty and mystique and wonder for all of us looking up at it from Earth.
