Emily ZemlerUpdated on: October 12, 2024 6:43 am GMT
Mark your calendars for Tuesday night, September 17, as the stunning Harvest Supermoon will grace the skies, briefly dimmed by a partial lunar eclipse. This rare cosmic event combines the brilliance of a supermoon with the captivating effects of Earth’s shadow, providing sky watchers a unique astronomical show.
What is a Harvest Supermoon?
The September Full Moon is traditionally known as the Corn Moon and symbolizes the harvest season. This year, it coincides with the Harvest Moon, being the full moon closest to the Fall Equinox in 2024. As a supermoon, it is expected to be the closest and brightest Full Moon of the year, second only to the upcoming Hunter’s Supermoon in October.
- Full Moon Date: September 17, 2024
- Notable Characteristics:
- Closest full moon of 2024
- Approximately 15% brighter than an average Full Moon
- Nearly 30% brighter than a micromoon
The next supermoon won’t occur until October, making this lunar event an opportunity not to be missed for astronomy enthusiasts.
Understanding the Lunar Eclipse
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on our satellite. This particular eclipse will be a partial one, meaning only a portion of the Moon will fall into the shadow, resulting in a dimming effect across its surface. Although it won’t reach totality, observers will still witness a profound visual transformation as night progresses.
How to Witness the Event
As the sun sets on September 17, the Full Moon will rise alongside it, remaining visible all night long. The eclipse will start with the Moon entering the penumbra, marking the beginning of the dimming effect. If you look closely, the darker umbra may be challenging to see without a telescope or binoculars. However, the best views will be during the peak viewing period when the partial shadow is at its strongest.
Viewing Times Across Canada
If you’re in Canada, here are the optimal viewing times for the eclipse, depending on your time zone:
| Time Zone | Start Time | End Time | Best Viewing Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDT | 10:11 p.m. | 2:17 a.m. | 11:44 p.m. – 12:46 a.m. |
| ADT | 9:41 p.m. | 1:47 a.m. | 11:14 p.m. – 12:16 a.m. |
| EDT | 8:41 p.m. | 12:47 a.m. | 10:14 p.m. – 11:16 p.m. |
| CDT | 7:41 p.m. | 11:47 p.m. | 9:14 p.m. – 10:16 p.m. |
| MDT | 6:41 p.m. | 10:47 p.m. | 8:14 p.m. - 9:16 p.m. |
| PDT | 5:41 p.m. | 9:47 p.m. | 7:14 p.m. – 8:16 p.m. |
Make sure to find a spot with minimal light pollution for the best experience.
Tips for Watching the Eclipse
Here are a few tips to enhance your viewing experience:
- Use Binoculars or a Telescope: While you can see the eclipse with the naked eye, using binoculars or a small telescope can bring out the colors of the shadow.
- Plan Ahead: Gather your friends or family to enjoy the night together. Bring blankets and snacks for a cozy viewing party.
- Take Photos: If you have a camera, try to capture your experience. Adjust your camera settings wisely to accommodate for the darker conditions.
What to Expect During the Eclipse
At first, the Supermoon will appear bright and full. However, as the eclipse progresses, it may take on a dimmer shade with possible hints of reddish hues, particularly during the peak phase of the eclipse. This reddish tint is a result of the sun’s rays bending through Earth’s atmosphere.
A Fascinating Cosmic Connection
This Harvest Supermoon is not just an astronomical event but also a comforting reminder of the changing seasons and nature’s beauty.
As Earth’s shadow darkens the Moon, it evokes a sense of wonder about our place in the universe. Watching celestial events like this can deepen appreciation for both the cosmos and our planet.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on a fantastic night of sky-watching on September 17! Grab your family and friends, head outside, and enjoy the amazing sight of the Harvest Supermoon during a partial lunar eclipse. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the night sky, and remember to watch closely as the shadow moves across the Moon. It’s going to be magical!
