The Largest Supermoon of the Year
On October 17, 2024, the night sky will dazzle with the brightest and largest full moon of the year—the Hunter’s Supermoon. Known as the third of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, this celestial event promises a breathtaking display that will captivate stargazers and casual observers alike.
What Is a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the point in its orbit closest to Earth, known as the perigee. This proximity makes the moon appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon. The October 17 supermoon, also called the Hunter’s Moon, will be the brightest supermoon of 2024. The name “Hunter’s Moon” comes from traditional agriculture when hunters took advantage of the bright moonlight to track game in post-harvest fields.
Why October 17’s Supermoon Is Special
This supermoon is unique not just because of its size and brightness but also because it shares the sky with the comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS). While the moon rises in the east as the sun sets in the west, the comet will shine brightly on the opposite side of the sky, creating a perfect spectacle.
The moon’s proximity to Earth reached its peak on October 16, 2024, when it came within 221,938 miles (357,174 kilometers) of our planet. This closeness ensures that tonight’s full moon will be the largest and brightest of the year. The moon officially became full at 7:26 a.m. EDT (11:26 GMT) today, but its majestic glow will be visible throughout the night.
How to View the Supermoon
For the best viewing experience, look toward the eastern horizon after sunset on October 17. As the moon rises, it will appear especially large and even take on a reddish hue due to the Earth’s atmosphere scattering blue light—a phenomenon similar to what makes the sun look red at sunset or sunrise.
The moon will appear full from Tuesday evening through Friday morning, giving ample opportunities to witness this spectacle. Even if weather conditions aren’t ideal in your location, you can still catch a live stream of the event courtesy of the Virtual Telescope Project.
The Science Behind the Supermoon’s Size and Brightness
A supermoon is up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon, but why? It’s all due to the moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth. At its closest point, or perigee, the moon is significantly nearer to us, making it look more prominent in the sky. October’s supermoon will reach its maximum phase at 1:26 p.m. EDT, just hours after passing its closest point to Earth.
Don’t Miss the Opportunity!
October 17’s supermoon is a rare astronomical event you won’t want to miss. With clear skies, you’ll get to witness one of the most beautiful moonlit nights of 2024. So grab your camera, find a good vantage point, and enjoy the majestic sight of the Supermoon of October 17.