Partial Lunar Eclipse: Harvest Moon is a Supermoon
On the night of September 10th, 2023, skywatchers around the world will be treated to a rare celestial spectacle: a partial lunar eclipse coinciding with a supermoon, also known as the Harvest Moon.
What is a Partial Lunar Eclipse?
A partial lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, but not perfectly aligned. This means that the Earth's shadow falls partially on the Moon, creating a darkened, "bitten" appearance.
What is a Harvest Moon?
The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox. This year, the equinox falls on September 22nd, making the September full moon the Harvest Moon. The name stems from its importance to farmers in the past, as its bright light allowed for extended harvesting hours.
Why is it a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit. This makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual.
What to expect on September 10th?
On September 10th, the partial lunar eclipse will be visible throughout North America, South America, Europe, and parts of Asia and Africa. The eclipse will begin at 9:09 PM EDT (01:09 UTC on September 11th) and reach its maximum at 11:10 PM EDT (03:10 UTC). The eclipse will end at 1:21 AM EDT (05:21 UTC).
The best viewing time for the eclipse will be around its maximum point, when the Moon will be most obscured.
How to observe the lunar eclipse?
The good news is that you don't need any special equipment to observe a lunar eclipse. All you need is a clear sky and a comfortable place to sit or lie down.
Here are some tips for observing the eclipse:
- Find a location with minimal light pollution. The darker the skies, the better the view.
- Be patient. The eclipse will take several hours to unfold, so relax and enjoy the show.
- Share the experience. Bring a friend or family member along to enjoy the celestial spectacle together.
Don't miss this chance to witness a unique celestial event. The next partial lunar eclipse visible from North America will be on March 14, 2025. So mark your calendars and prepare for a night of lunar magic!
