October’s Hunter’s Moon Set to Shine as 2024’s Closest and Largest Supermoon

The “Hunter’s Moon” in October 2024 is a significant celestial event, as it is the first full moon of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and also the closest supermoon of the year. Also known as the “Falling Leaves Moon” and the “Blood Moon,” this full moon is set to peak at 11:26 UTC on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

While the moon reaches its full phase in the morning, the best time to view it will be later that evening at the moonrise, when the moon will appear large and orange on the horizon just after sunset.

To witness the Hunter’s Moon at its most striking, observers should plan to watch the moonrise just after sunset. In major cities, this will happen around 6:13 p.m. in New York, 6:26 p.m. in Los Angeles, and 5:52 p.m. in London on October 17, with slightly later times the next day. The full moon will appear more prominent as it rises against the twilight sky, especially in locations with a clear eastern horizon.

For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to find a high vantage point or an east-facing coastal area to enjoy an unobstructed view of the moonrise. While the moon can be appreciated with the naked eye, binoculars can enhance the experience by providing a closer look at the lunar surface. Clear skies will be crucial to fully appreciate the moon’s appearance as it rises.

This particular Hunter’s Moon is the largest and closest supermoon of 2024, making it a standout among the year’s full moons. A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth, or perigee, making it appear about 10% larger and brighter than a typical full moon.

The Hunter’s Moon will be approximately 222,055 miles (357,363 kilometers) from Earth, giving it an especially bright and prominent appearance.

After the Hunter’s Moon, the next full moon will be the “Beaver Moon,” which will occur on November 15, 2024. This will be the second full moon of fall and the eleventh of the year. The Beaver Moon will be the next opportunity to enjoy a full moon, though it won’t be a supermoon like the Hunter’s Moon.