Get ready for a skywatching event like no other this Tuesday! The upcoming full moon will be a rare lunar trifecta, combining the harvest moon, a supermoon, and a partial lunar eclipse all in one spectacular show.
The harvest moon, known as the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox, will be shining brightly in the night sky, appearing larger than usual. But that’s not all – a partial lunar eclipse will also be visible during this cosmic event.
Mark your calendars for Tuesday night, September 17, into Wednesday morning to witness this celestial spectacle. The lunar eclipse will begin at 8:41 p.m. EDT, with the peak occurring at 10:44 p.m., showcasing a partial shadow covering 8% of the moon.
What is the harvest moon?
The harvest moon holds historical significance, as it is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, aligning perfectly with the time when farmers traditionally depended on its light to harvest their crops late into the night.
This year, the equinox falls on September 22, making this harvest moon even more special. According to NASA, the term “harvest moon” originated before electricity when farmers relied on the moonlight for their late-night harvests in the fall season.
What is a supermoon?
Not only will this full moon be a harvest moon with a partial lunar eclipse, but it will also be a supermoon. A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, appearing about 17% bigger and 30% brighter than usual.
Supermoons are a rare occurrence, happening only three or four times a year. This year, we are fortunate to witness four supermoons, with each one getting closer to Earth than the last. Tuesday’s supermoon will be nearly 3,000 miles closer than August’s supermoon, making it a must-see event in the night sky.
