If you look up at the sky on Wednesday night, you’ll see the full moon shining brighter and bigger than usual. This is because it’s the second supermoon of the year, which happens when the moon is closest to Earth while it’s full.
Dr. Sara Webb, an astrophysicist from Swinburne University in Melbourne, reminds us,
“People often forget to look up. It’s nice to just enjoy a full moon when you can.”
Supermoon
The moon doesn’t always stay the same distance from Earth. When it reaches its closest point, we call it a supermoon. This time, the moon will be about 357,000 km away from Earth – 27,000 km closer than usual. We usually see two to four supermoons each year.
Reading Suggestion: Sydney Metro Increases Operating Hours and More Trains
Best time and place to watch
The perfect time to view the supermoon is when it rises above the horizon, giving you a sense of its size compared to things on Earth. In Sydney and Melbourne, this happens around 6pm, while in New York and London, it’s closer to 7pm.
Look for a spot that’s dark and faces east, which is where the moon will rise. Flat, open areas with minimal buildings give the best view. On the east coast of Australia, Brisbane and Sydney are ideal spots. Dr. Bradley Tucker from the Australian National University suggests that flat locations, like the US east coast or central Australia, will provide a fantastic view.
The supermoon will be at its highest point around midnight in Australia and at about 10:30pm on the US east coast.
Taking photos of the supermoon
Want to snap a photo of this celestial event? The key is to catch it as it rises, so you can capture the moon with objects on the horizon for perspective. A dark setting and a clear view to the east will help you get that perfect shot, whether you’re using your phone or camera.
Can’t make it? There’s more to come
If you miss this supermoon, don’t worry. Two more are coming up on October 17 and November 15 this year.
What about the lunar eclipse?
A partial lunar eclipse will also occur on Wednesday, but unfortunately, it won’t be visible from Australia. However, if you’re in South America, West Africa, or Western Europe, you’re in luck.
Reading Suggestion: Clover Moore Wins Again: Secures Historic 6th Term as Sydney Lord Mayor
What is a Harvest Moon?
In the US, each full moon has a name based on the time of year. This one is called the Harvest Moon because it marks the start of the autumn harvest season in the northern hemisphere. However, that doesn’t quite apply to those of us in the southern hemisphere.
So, get ready to step outside, find a good spot, and enjoy this stunning celestial event!
