Kasia Dietz
Updated on: October 12, 2024 9:56 pm GMT
Skywatchers around the world were in for a spectacular sight on the night of September 17, 2024, as a partial lunar eclipse coincided with a supermoon, creating a stunning celestial show. This rare combination drew attention from enthusiasts and casual observers alike, transforming the moon into a captivating red-brown hue while it appeared 8% larger than usual.
What Happened and When to See It
The partial lunar eclipse was a highlight of the skywatching calendar, and it was visible from many corners of the globe. Here’s a breakdown of the key details:
- The eclipse occurred late on September 17, with its peak visibility timed at 10:44 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
- Skywatchers in regions such as North America, most of South America, Europe, and parts of Africa had the opportunity to witness the eclipse.
- In London, the darkest phase was observable at approximately 3:44 a.m. British Summer Time (BST) on September 18.
If you missed the direct view of this celestial event, online livestreams provided a chance to catch the action. Websites like [Space.com](https://www.space.com) collected a range of broadcasts for global viewers to enjoy.
Understanding the Partial Lunar Eclipse
During a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the moon enters Earth’s shadow. This phenomenon creates an appearance resembling a “bite” taken out of the moon’s surface. As Earth casts its shadow:
- About 3.5% of the moon’s visible surface can be obscured by Earth’s darkest shadow, known as the umbra.
- The remaining surface takes on a muted reddish-brown tint, due to sunlight refracting through Earth’s atmosphere.
While the moon shines brighter during a supermoon, the subtle differences may be hard to distinguish with the naked eye. According to Fred Espanak, an eclipse expert and retired NASA astrophysicist, this event marked the second of four supermoons in 2024, a phenomenon defined as a full moon coinciding with the moon’s closest approach to Earth.
The Significance of the Harvest Moon
September’s full moon is traditionally known as the “Harvest Moon,” which holds significance for farmers and communities preparing for the autumn season. This year’s Harvest Moon was particularly special due to its alignment with both the supermoon and a lunar eclipse.
- The term “Harvest Moon” typically refers to the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox.
- Harvest moons often increase visibility during the early evening hours, providing additional light for harvest activities.
This celestial display provided not only a visual wonder but also an opportunity for learning and sharing among friends and families. Many amateur astronomers took to social media, sharing photos and stories of their experiences.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Celestial Events
The excitement doesn’t end with the Harvest Moon. Just weeks after the lunar eclipse, Earth will experience an annular solar eclipse on October 2, 2024. This event, commonly known as the “ring of fire” solar eclipse, will be visible from parts of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile, southern Argentina, and others.
For those interested in keeping up with skywatching, online resources will provide live streams and updates. Space.com, for example, plans to offer comprehensive coverage of this upcoming solar eclipse, helping enthusiasts stay informed.
How to Get Involved
If you are passionate about space and astrophotography, consider capturing photos of future celestial events to share. Readers may submit their best images to publications like Space.com, showcasing their views on such wonders. Sharing experiences, tips, or photos can help build a community of amateur astronomers.
For those curious about telescope recommendations, the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ has been highlighted as a great starting point for beginners interested in astrophotography and lunar observation.
Conclusion
The Harvest Moon Supermoon and the partial lunar eclipse on September 17 were incredible sights in the night sky. Whether you’re a big fan of space or just enjoy looking up at the stars, events like these make us feel closer to the universe. As we wait for the next eclipse and other amazing space happenings, there will be plenty of chances to wonder, learn, and enjoy the beauty of the sky together.
