What You Need To Know
- September’s full moon is known as the Harvest Moon since it occurs closest to the Fall Equinox
- This is the second of four supermoons that will occur this year
- The moon will look “super-sized”
September’s Full Moon: What’s in Store
This month’s full moon will peak on the evening of September 17 and be the second of four supermoons this year. Nicknamed the Harvest Moon, since it occurs closest to the Autumnal Equinox.
What’s a Supermoon?
A supermoon is when the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth. The moon will appear brighter and larger than normal.
Alternative Names
According to the farmer’s almanac, names of moons corresponded with entire lunar months and were derived from Native American, Colonial American and European sources. If the October full moon happens closer to the Fall Equinox than the September full moon, October will take the Harvest Moon name and September’s moon will be referred to as the Corn Moon. The month is a transitional month as we move away from summer toward fall and the alternative names reflect this.
Alternative Names for September’s Full Moon
- Autumn Moon (Cree)
- Falling Leaves Moon (Ojibwe)
- Leaves Turning Moon (Anishinaabe)
- Moon of Brown Leaves (Lakota)
- Yellow Leaf Moon (Assiniboine)
Partial Lunar Eclipse
Not only is it a full supermoon, but it’s also a partial lunar eclipse, meaning part of Earth’s shadow will cover the moon. The celestial show will start at around 8:41 p.m. ET, Tuesday. The partial eclipse will make the moon appear reddish because of the way the Earth’s atmosphere refracts the light. Check your local forecast here to see how clouds may affect your viewing.
Conclusion
This month’s full moon is a special event, not only because it’s a supermoon, but also because it’s a partial lunar eclipse. Make sure to check out the celestial show on Tuesday evening and enjoy the beautiful sight of the Harvest Moon.
FAQs
Q: What is a supermoon?
A: A supermoon is when the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth, making the moon appear brighter and larger than normal.
Q: What is the Harvest Moon?
A: The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the Autumnal Equinox, typically in September or October.
Q: Will the moon appear reddish during the partial lunar eclipse?
A: Yes, the partial eclipse will make the moon appear reddish because of the way the Earth’s atmosphere refracts the light.
Q: When will the partial lunar eclipse start?
A: The partial lunar eclipse will start at around 8:41 p.m. ET, Tuesday.
