Britons witnessed a rare harvest supermoon lunar eclipse visible across the UK. A supermoon occurs when the moon is closer to Earth than usual, making it appear larger in the sky. When Earth passes between the sun and moon, it casts a shadow visible in the moon’s top right corner.
Observers saw a portion of the moon disappear into Earth’s shadow during the partial lunar eclipse. In the early evening, the supermoon appeared at its largest and sometimes slightly orange due to the atmosphere’s effect on moonlight. This supermoon is one of three remaining this year.
NASA states that the Earth, moon, and sun align to produce solar or lunar eclipses four to seven times annually. This lunar eclipse is the second and final one of the year, following a slight darkening in March. Most areas should have a good view, although cloud cover is expected to increase as the night progresses.
Northern Hemisphere skywatchers: You’re in for a special treat on the evening of Sept. 17!
With a clear sky, you could see a partial lunar eclipse of tonight’s #HarvestMoon. Learn more: https://t.co/JdOb93uIwW pic.twitter.com/3cYL6hhzye
— NASA (@NASA) September 17, 2024
The full harvest supermoon will rise at around 7.15pm this evening, and at 1.40am on Wednesday morning, a small shadow created by Earth will appear in the moon’s top right corner as the eclipse begins. In April, a total solar eclipse plunged select North American cities into darkness.
No special eye protection is required to view a lunar eclipse. Viewers can observe the moon with the naked eye or use binoculars and telescopes for a closer look. Last month, a rare blue supermoon delighted stargazers across Europe. This lunar phenomenon occurs three or four times a year when the moon reaches its nearest point to Earth.
This makes the moon appear up to 14 per cent larger and a third brighter than usual, providing spectacular views when the moon is full for the next three days. A blue moon is named not for its colour but for the timing of full moons during the year. The moon has also been called the green corn moon, grain moon, and red moon for the reddish hue it often takes on in summer.
A supermoon means Earth’s satellite is closest to the planet. During a supermoon, the moon appears up to 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter compared to when it is farthest away. Astrologer Richard Nolle coined the term supermoon in 1979 to describe a new or full moon occurring within 90 per cent of its closest approach to Earth.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Telegraph provides a comprehensive guide to the rare supermoon and partial lunar eclipse, detailing viewing times and locations, emphasizing the importance of darkness and optimal viewing spots. (Read more)
- BBC Weather reports a partial harvest supermoon eclipse on Tuesday night, visible across the UK with minimal impact, occurring from 1:40 AM to 2:40 AM on Wednesday. (Read more)
- Sky News reports on the spectacular alignment of a supermoon, harvest moon, and lunar eclipse tonight, emphasizing the visibility across the UK and tips for spotting the subtle lunar eclipse. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What is a supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when the moon is closer to Earth, appearing larger and brighter.
When can I see the harvest supermoon lunar eclipse?
The full harvest supermoon rises at 7.15pm and the eclipse starts at 1.40am.
Do I need special equipment to watch a lunar eclipse?
No special eye protection is needed; you can use naked eyes, binoculars, or telescopes.
How often do lunar and solar eclipses occur?
NASA states that there are four to seven solar or lunar eclipses each year.
Why is a blue moon called that?
A blue moon is named for its timing, not its color, marking the second full moon in a calendar month.