The full moon in September 2024 is set to be a remarkable event, capturing the attention of skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts worldwide. This particular full moon, known as the Harvest Moon, will not only be a supermoon but will also coincide with a partial lunar eclipse, making it a unique celestial phenomenon.
The Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox, which this year falls on September 221. Traditionally, the Harvest Moon provided extra light to farmers, allowing them to work late into the night to harvest their crops. This year, the Harvest Moon will reach its peak on the night of September 17, 20242.
A Supermoon Event
What makes this year’s Harvest Moon even more special is that it will be a supermoon. A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee. This makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual. According to NASA, supermoons can appear about 7% bigger and 15% brighter than a typical full moon. This will be the second of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, with the next ones occurring on October 17 and November 152.
Partial Lunar Eclipse
Adding to the excitement, the night of the full moon will also feature a partial lunar eclipse. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, casting a
shadow on the moon. During this partial eclipse, only a portion of the moon will be covered by the Earth’s shadow, creating a striking visual effect. The peak of the eclipse will occur at 10:44 p.m. ET on September 17, when about 8% of the moon will be in full shadow2.
Viewing the Event
For those eager to witness this celestial event, the best time to observe the full moon will be from Monday evening through Thursday morning. The partial lunar eclipse will be most noticeable in the early hours of September 18, with the shadow becoming more prominent as it reaches its peak at 3:44 a.m. in London. To get the best view, find a location with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution. Alternatively, many astronomy websites and YouTube channels will offer live streams of the event for those who prefer to watch from the comfort of their homes3.
Astrological Significance
Astrologers believe that full moons, especially those coinciding with eclipses, can have significant emotional and spiritual impacts. The Harvest Moon is often associated with themes of abundance, gratitude, and completion. It is a time to reflect on the past year, acknowledge achievements, and set intentions for the future. The partial lunar eclipse adds an element of transformation and change, encouraging individuals to let go of what no longer serves them and embrace new beginnings4.
Scientific Importance
From a scientific perspective, studying lunar eclipses provides valuable insights into the Earth’s atmosphere. When sunlight passes through the Earth’s atmosphere during an eclipse, it gets refracted and scattered, casting a reddish hue on the moon’s surface. This phenomenon, known as Rayleigh scattering, is the same process that causes sunsets and sunrises to appear red. By analyzing the light during an eclipse, scientists can learn more about the composition and behavior of the Earth’s atmosphere2.
The September 2024 full moon promises to be a spectacular event, combining the beauty of a supermoon with the intrigue of a partial lunar eclipse. Whether you are an avid skywatcher, a
spiritual seeker, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the night sky, this celestial event is not to be missed. Mark your calendars for the night of September 17 and prepare to be awed by the luminous Harvest Moon and its accompanying eclipse.