Last night’s harvest moon captured imaginations. Here’s what comes next for moonwatchers
If you stepped outside under last night’s brighter-than-usual full Moon and wondered whether it was a one-off event, you weren’t alone. A so-called supermoon — a term that isn’t technically scientific but widely used to describe a full Moon that coincides with its closest approach to Earth — made the Moon appear larger and brighter for many observers around the world.
So, when is the next supermoon? In practice, the Moon itself doesn’t physically grow in size. Its apparent size changes because of the elliptical shape of its orbit around Earth. When the Moon is closer to us, the disk looks a touch bigger and the surface details pop a little more against the night sky.
What makes the Moon look extra special?
Photographers and skywatchers often noted how the Moon appeared larger near the horizon and brighter after sunset. This is the well-known “Moon illusion,” a perceptual trick that makes the Moon seem oversized when framed against foreground objects like trees, buildings, or mountains. Long lenses can exaggerate this effect in photographs, creating striking images of a towering Moon above familiar landscapes.
Before you grab a camera, a quick reminder: the illusion isn’t real in a physical sense. NASA explains that these awe-inspiring shots are often the result of zooming in on distant objects near the ground, not an actual increase in the Moon’s size.
What should you expect for the next viewing windows?
If you missed last night’s spectacle, you’re in luck: the next two clear opportunities to see a prominent Moon are on the calendar soon, according to ABC science coverage. These windows are not guaranteed to be perfect “supermoons” in the strictest technical sense, as the Moon needs to be full and near its closest approach to Earth to earn the title. Still, similar appearances — bright, noticeable Moons around full Moon dates — are highly likely and make for excellent observing and photography sessions.
For precise dates, we recommend checking trusted sources like NASA, timeanddate.com, or your local astronomical society. They offer up-to-date calendars that account for the Moon’s orbit, atmospheric conditions, and local viewing viability. Your best bet is to look a week ahead and plan a short session outdoors after sunset, especially if your aim is to capture the Moon rising over familiar landmarks or an urban skyline.
Practical tips for tonight’s viewing
- Look toward the eastern horizon just after sundown to maximize the “Moon illusion” and achieve a dramatic foreground.
- Use a long lens for photographs to emphasize the Moon’s detail and its position relative to nearby objects.
- Be mindful of atmospheric conditions; haze or smoke can intensify the Moon’s warm orange hue around sunset, a phenomenon noted by observers who saw a dusky-red Moon as it dipped below the horizon.
- Consider safety and comfort: light pollution, traffic, and cold evenings mean a quick, balanced tripod setup and warm clothing are helpful.
Why the Moon remains a source of fascination
From Australia’s coastlines to North American skylines and European city lights, the Moon’s regular cycles remind us of our place in the solar system. The October harvest Moon is a traditional name tied to harvest time in the northern hemisphere, but the appeal of a visibly brighter Moon applies globally. As you scan the night sky, remember that the Moon’s beauty is a blend of celestial mechanics and human perception — a timeless duet that invites us to pause, look up, and photograph what we see.
Whether you’re a casual observer or a dedicated astrophotographer, the upcoming Moon-watching windows offer a reliable chance to experience a moonlit moment that’s just a touch more memorable than usual. Keep an eye on reputable science outlets for the exact dates and best viewing times in your region.
