Katie Daly
Updated on: October 11, 2024 1:00 pm GMT
Stargazers in the United States have a unique opportunity to witness a breathtaking celestial event, as the harvest moon coincides with a supermoon and a partial lunar eclipse on September 17. This rare trio of phenomena promises to offer an extraordinary show in the night sky, captivating both experienced astronomers and casual observers alike.
What to Expect This Month
As the full moon rises on the evening of September 17, it will not only be the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox but will also appear larger and brighter than usual due to its classification as a supermoon. A partial lunar eclipse is set to occur alongside these events, further enhancing the viewing experience. Skywatchers should be ready much earlier in the evening to catch the beginning of the eclipse, which will showcase some remarkable features of the moon’s intricate dance with Earth’s shadow.
The Timeline of the Lunar Eclipse
NASA has provided a detailed timeline for those wishing to observe the lunar eclipse. The process will begin at 8:41 p.m. EDT when the moon enters Earth’s partial shadow. Observers may not notice much change until 10:13 p.m. EDT, when the top edge of the moon will start to pass into the full shadow. This will reach its peak at 10:44 p.m. EDT when approximately 8% of the moon will be obscured. The moon will exit the full shadow by 11:16 p.m. EDT, concluding the lunar occasion with the final separation from the partial shadow occurring at 12:47 a.m. EDT on September 18.
Understanding the Harvest Moon
The harvest moon is defined as the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox, which this year takes place on September 22. The tradition of the harvest moon dates back to times before the introduction of electric lighting, when farmers relied on the bright moonlight to extend their harvest work into the night. As fall approaches, this full moon represents a crucial time for gathering crops, historically marking the end of the agricultural season for many communities.
The Science Behind the Supermoon
A supermoon occurs when the moon is near its perigee, the point in its orbit that is closest to Earth, making it appear approximately 17% larger and 30% brighter than the smallest full moon of the year. September’s supermoon will be nearly 3,000 miles closer than the previous month’s blue supermoon, a significant difference for skywatchers eager to witness this impressive sight. This year features four supermoons in total, with the closest instance scheduled for October, when the moon will be just 222,055 miles (357,364 kilometers) away from Earth.
Other Notable Celestial Events
In addition to the supermoon and lunar eclipse, September offers other exciting celestial occurrences. One of the highlights is the potential visibility of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), expected to grace the skies as it travels near the sun. If conditions allow, this comet could be observable from September 22 through October 4, and even beyond into October, presenting an additional spectacle for astronomy enthusiasts.
Viewing Recommendations
To make the most of these astronomical events, it is advisable to find a location away from city lights, where the darkness allows for optimal viewing. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience, enabling spectators to observe the lunar features more clearly. For families and groups, this can be an excellent opportunity for stargazing parties, educational discussions about astronomy, or simply enjoying the beauty of the night sky.
Engagement with the Community
NASA encourages everyone to participate in the excitement surrounding these celestial events by sharing photos and videos. Individuals are invited to upload their captures to Ulocal, creating a sense of community amongst skywatchers across the nation. Events like these foster a shared appreciation for the universe, allowing people to connect over a common interest in astronomy and the wonders it holds.
As September 17 gets closer, people are getting really excited about the amazing things happening in the sky! Whether it’s the bright full moon, the cool changes during a lunar eclipse, or maybe even spotting a comet, this month is packed with fun things to see. It’s a great chance for everyone to enjoy the wonders of space and share in the excitement of looking up at the stars!
