The upcoming Super Hunter’s Moon in 2024 is set to illuminate the night sky this week as the brightest and largest moon of the year. Scheduled for Thursday, October 17, this celestial event will mark October’s Hunter’s Moon, also classified as a supermoon and deemed the brightest of 2024. This supermoon will be the third of the year, following those in August and September, with the final one for the year expected in November.
Supermoons occur when a full moon aligns with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, resulting in it appearing larger and brighter than usual. NASA specifies that this week’s Super Hunter’s Moon will be marginally brighter, remaining in its full phase for approximately three days from Tuesday evening to Friday morning. To witness the full splendor of this supermoon, enthusiasts are encouraged to seek out locations with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
Historically referred to as the Hunter’s Moon since 1710, October’s full moon indicated a period when farmers and hunters gathered resources before winter set in. Fields were readied, and animals were more visible, making hunting more manageable. Various Native American tribes labelled October’s full moon the Blood Moon, Travel Moon, or Dying Grass Moon, symbolizing significant seasonal transitions.
The term “supermoon” was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 to describe a full or new moon occurring when the moon is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. During a supermoon, the moon’s size and luminosity are enhanced compared to regular occurrences. Observers are advised to choose dark viewing spots facing east for optimal visibility, particularly during the moon’s rise over the horizon, when it appears the largest. Binoculars or telescopes can aid in appreciating finer details on the moon’s surface. For those unable to witness the supermoon in person, live streams are available online for a virtual experience.
As the Super Hunter’s Moon graces the skies this week, astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers are gearing up for a breathtaking lunar spectacle, offering a chance to connect with the universe in an awe-inspiring display.