Skywatchers around the world are in for a celestial treat this week as the Hunter’s Moon, the third of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, will rise on Thursday, October 17. This dazzling full moon will not only appear bigger and brighter than usual but also holds cultural significance across various traditions and festivals.
What is the Hunter’s Moon
The Hunter’s Moon is the first full moon after the Harvest Moon, traditionally marking the time when fields were cleared of crops, making hunting easier for early English and American farmers. This year, it will reach its peak at 7:26 AM EDT (4:56 PM IST) on Thursday, but viewers can enjoy its luminous beauty from Tuesday evening through Friday morning, according to NASA.
Additionally, just a day before the full moon, on Wednesday, October 16, the moon will reach perigee, the point in its orbit where it is closest to Earth, making this a true supermoon.
Why Does the Moon Appear Brighter During a Supermoon?
The moon’s orbit around Earth is elliptical, causing the distance between the two to vary throughout the month. During a supermoon, the moon is at its closest point to Earth, known as perigee, which makes it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is farthest away, or at apogee.
When and Where to Watch
The best time to view the Hunter’s Moon is just after sunset when it will hover low on the horizon, creating a stunning visual. The moon will be visible worldwide, but the timing will differ by location:
– In India, the Hunter’s Moon will reach its peak at 4:56 PM IST on October 17 and will be visible in the evenings from October 15 to October 18.
– In New Zealand and areas east of the International Date Line, the supermoon will be visible early on Friday, October 18.
– In the western United States, skywatchers will see the full moon late on Wednesday night, October 16.
The moon will appear full for nearly three days, giving ample time for stargazers to enjoy its brilliance.
Cultural Significance of the Supermoon
This October supermoon holds important cultural meaning across various traditions:
Hinduism: Celebrated as Sharad Purnima, it marks the end of monsoon and is dedicated to the moon god, often considered a time of great blessings.
Buddhism: The full moon signifies the end of the Vassa, or Buddhist Lent, a three-month period of meditation and retreat during the rainy season.
Judaism: The full moon coincides with the festival of Sukkot, a week-long celebration of the harvest and the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness.
Myanmar: The Thadingyut Festival of Lights overlaps with this supermoon, celebrating Buddha’s return from heaven.
Don’t Miss the Spectacle
The Hunter’s Moon this October will provide the biggest and brightest full moon of the year, making it a must-see for all skywatchers. With its cultural significance and stunning visual display, it’s sure to captivate viewers around the world.
