Let’s hope for clear skies, Victoria!
Not only is September’s full moon a supermoon, it’s also what’s called a ‘partial lunar eclipse’, which, according to NASA, means that the moon will enter the earth’s partial shadow.
Though, onlookers will have to practice a bit of patience, as the dimming of the moon will be difficult to notice until the entirety of the top edge of the moon has been engulfed by shadow. The top 8% is estimated to enter full shadow.
Similar to all full moons, September’s moon is significant for a number of reasons across different cultures, but here, it’s commonly known as the Harvest Moon.
It will appear full from Monday, September 16th to Wednesday, September 18th—Tuesday being noted as its peak.
The term ‘Harvest Moon’ comes from its close proximity to the autumnal equinox, when farmers were known to work late during harvest under the moonlight.
The full moon provided extra visibility, which is valuable as daylight hours shrink with the coming of winter.
Now, with headlights installed in most farm equipment, farmers don’t face the same barrier when it comes to waning light, but the history is fun!
This moon is also called the Corn Moon, the Fruit or Barley Moon, the Potato Harvest Moon, and many others, including the mark of the end of Ganesh Chaturthi and the start of Pitru Paksha for Hindus.
Another event tied to this moon is the Mid-Autumn Festival, a traditional harvest festival celebrated in China, Vietnam and other Asian countries.
If you’re looking for somewhere to view it, try Cattle Point, PKOLS (Mount Doug) or Highrock Park.
Bring a blanket, a warm drink and a buddy to snuggle up next to!
