What to Expect Tonight: The Harvest Moon Turns Super
Montreal residents are in for a celestial treat as October’s Harvest Moon lights up the sky and becomes the first supermoon of 2026. The full moon rises at around 5:44 p.m. and reaches peak illumination at approximately 11:47 p.m., giving skywatchers a broad window to enjoy its bright, orange-tinted glow. This is a rare alignment that draws both amateur stargazers and seasoned astronomers to parks, backyards, and waterfronts across the city.
Understanding the Harvest Moon and a Supermoon
The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumn equinox. This year, autumn began on September 22, and the Harvest Moon marks one of the brightest full moons of the season, historically used to illuminate harvest work after sunset. A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in the orbit, making the Moon appear larger and brighter than usual. This October Harvest Moon is the first of three consecutive supermoons in late 2026, with follow-ups on November 5 and December 4.
Why It Feels Extra Special in Montreal
Montreal’s urban glow is usually a barrier to stargazing, but on a clear autumn night the Harvest Moon can outshine city lights. For observers, the Moon’s lower autumnal angle provides a dramatic, wide-angled silhouette over the city skyline, especially from vantage points along the Old Port, Mont-Royal viewpoints, the Lachine Canal, or any open park perches with a clear western horizon.
Viewing Tips for Tonight
- Check the forecast: Sunny skies are anticipated before moonrise, with a high near 28°C and only moderate UV exposure. A light jacket can help once night falls.
- Find a dark, open spot: Seek locations away from dense street lighting for the best contrast against the bright Moon.
- Use a simple setup: A pair of binoculars or a small telescope can reveal lunar craters and rugged terrain more clearly without needing specialized gear.
- Give your eyes time to adjust: Allow about 15–20 minutes for night vision. The Harvest Moon’s brightness should ease the transition.
- Timing matters: The Moon reaches full illumination at 11:47 p.m., but you’ll still see a spectacular disk before and after that moment.
Draconid Meteor Shower: A Bright Sky, Notable Overlap
Coinciding with this Harvest Moon is the annual Draconid meteor shower, active from October 6 to 10. The Moon’s bright light will make meteor watching more challenging this year, with the peak expected on October 8. If your goal isMeteor shower viewing, plan for a late-night session when the Moon’s glow is lower on the horizon and let your eyes adjust to the darker sky after moonrise.
What This Means for Montrealers Tonight
Whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or a casual observer, October 6 offers a rare combination: a Harvest Moon, a supermoon, and a meteor shower window. Grab a blanket, head to a high viewpoint, and enjoy a night when the Moon lights up Montreal’s autumn sky more vividly than usual. Remember to dress for cool evening air and bring a thermos or hot drink to stay comfortable during late-night viewing.
In short, tonight’s events bring together science and wonder. The first supermoon of 2026 will illuminate Montreal, while the Draconid meteor shower adds a touch of celestial drama—though the Moon’s brightness may obscure many of the faint meteors. Either way, this is a night for skywatchers and curious minds alike to pause, look up, and appreciate our place under the autumn sky.
