Get ready for a celestial show in the night sky as 2023’s fourth and final supermoon graces the horizon. This remarkable event occurs when the moon comes closest to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and more luminous than usual.
As we bid farewell to summer, the harvest supermoon will peak in brilliance on Friday, September 29, 2023, following its ascent in the night sky.
Thursday’s full moon is aptly named the “harvest moon” because it closely aligns with the autumnal equinox, which occurred on September 23.
Farmers and skywatchers also refer to it as the “corn moon,” marking the culmination of summer harvests.
While the harvest moon typically appears in September, it occasionally graces the skies in October every three years. This subtle change in timing adds to the allure of this lunar spectacle.
The significance of the “harvest” in the harvest moon’s name harkens back to the days when moonlight was indispensable for farmers working late into the night.
This precious light enabled them to swiftly gather their crops before rain could spoil the harvest.
For those who miss this week’s supermoon, patience is required as the next one won’t illuminate the night sky until late summer 2024.
In addition to the harvest moon, 2023 treated us to a series of supermoons, including the buck moon in July, the sturgeon moon in August, and a rare super blue moon in August.
The next super blue moon is not expected until January and March 2037, making these celestial events all the more special.
