Topline
The moon is expected to be near its closest point to Earth tonight, resulting in the largest supermoon this year, according to experts, an unofficial astronomical phenomenon that occurs up to four times annually.
A supermoon occurs up to four times annually when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth.
Key Facts
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon reaching its closest distance—a point, known as perigee, that’s about 226,000 miles away—from the Earth in its 27-day orbit, though NASA does not recognize it as an official astronomical term.
The next full moon is expected to reach perigee Thursday night, coming within about 222,000 miles from the Earth, but it’s likely to become a supermoon as early as Wednesday, according to projections from Fred Espenak, a former NASA astrophysicist.
There have been two other supermoons this year on Aug. 19 and Sept. 18, and another is forecast for Nov. 15., however, the moon has not and is not expected to be as close to the Earth as it will this week.
Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you’ll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
When Can I See The Supermoon?
The moon will rise Wednesday starting at 5:46 p.m. EDT and become full around 11:35 p.m., according to NOAA. Espenak forecast the supermoon becoming full and reaching its closest point to Earth Thursday at 11:26 p.m. EDT.
How Can I See The Supermoon?
The supermoon will be visible across the Earth regardless of light pollution, according to NASA, though it’s better to be in areas without clouds. Most of the central U.S. is expected to have clear skies Wednesday night, though some areas in some states—including Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming and Nevada—will likely be overcast, according to the National Weather Service. The same clouds are expected to move East Thursday night, with Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota forecast with cloudier skies.
Surprising Fact
The full moon in October is also known as the “hunter’s moon” because it marks the beginning of the hunting season, signaling to hunters to begin preparing for colder conditions, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. The “hunter’s moon” follows the “harvest moon,” a moon phase that signals the best time for harvesters to reap their crops.
Further Reading
ForbesExactly When To See The ‘Super Hunter’s Moon’ At Its Best This WeekBy Jamie Carter
