What a supermoon is—and isn’t
If last night’s harvest moon looked a touch bigger or brighter, you weren’t imagining it. A “supermoon” is a popular nickname for a full moon that coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its orbit. The Moon doesn’t grow or shrink; what changes is the distance between the Moon and our planet. When the Moon is closer to Earth, its apparent size and brightness increase just enough to make it a striking sight for skywatchers and photographers.
Why the Moon can look orange or dramatic
Observers who caught the Moon low in the sky near sunset may have noticed a warm, reddish hue. That color comes from the longer path the Moon’s light travels through Earth’s atmosphere at low angles. Ray scattering removes more of the blue wavelengths, leaving a reddish tint—especially if there’s haze, smoke, or pollution in the air. Understanding these atmospheric effects helps explain the memorable photos and the sometimes surreal look of a near-horizon Moon.
Is tonight another supermoon opportunity?
Even when a full Moon isn’t technically categorized as a supermoon, the Moon can still appear larger and more luminant when it’s near Earth. To maximize your chances of a memorable sight, look for a clear sky, use a long lens, and consider composing your shot with a recognizable foreground—such as a city skyline or mountains—to emphasize the Moon’s apparent size.
How to photograph a “supermoon” like a pro
- Plan for the Moon’s rising or setting time in your location, and scout a foreground with depth (buildings, trees, or hills).
- Use a sturdy tripod and a telephoto lens (200mm or longer) to capture the Moon’s details without shake.
- Start with a base exposure to hold the Moon’s features, then bracket your shots to balance lunar detail with the night sky.
- Include atmospheric context—haze, mist, or smoke can enhance the color and mood of the scene.
- Try the “Moon illusion” technique: place a landmark near the horizon to make the Moon appear larger in frame, though NASA notes this is a perspective effect rather than a real change in size.
What’s next on the calendar?
If you missed last night’s spectacle, you’re not out of luck. The next two near-supermoon events are anticipated in the coming months, but exact dates depend on celestial mechanics and your time zone. Check trusted sources such as NASA, timeanddate.com, or your local astronomy society for precise dates and rise/set times in your area. This helps you plan ahead and choose the best time window for photography.
What observers around the world saw last night
Last night’s Moon drew attention worldwide—from Queensland’s coast to Victoria’s skies, with photographers capturing the Moon rising over the horizon. A plane cruising above London framed the Moon, while divers off Malta watched it climb after sunset. In North America, the Moon rose behind the Statue of Liberty and lit the Capitol dome during a moment of political inactivity, offering a stark visual juxtaposition that echoed the Moon’s enduring symbolism.
Bottom line
The appeal of a supermoon is simple: a brighter, closer Moon adds drama to the night. Whether you call it a true supermoon or a near-supermoon, a clear sky, careful planning, and a good camera setup can help you capture images that rival the best-night photos from around the world. For the exact dates and times, consult reliable astronomical calendars in your region and set a reminder for the next opportunity to look up and wonder.
