A Celestial Spectacle: September 2024’s Harvest Moon Supermoon and Partial Lunar Eclipse

September 2024 is set to be a remarkable month for skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. The full harvest moon, occurring on September 17th, will not only be a supermoon but will also feature a partial lunar eclipse. This unique combination of celestial events makes it a must-see phenomenon. A supermoon occurs when the full moon is at or near its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. This results in the moon appearing larger and brighter than usual. Adding to the excitement, the partial lunar eclipse will be visible from most of North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and parts of Antarctica, offering a rare visual treat for a large portion of the global population.

The term ‘supermoon’ was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979, and it refers to a new or full moon that occurs when the moon is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. While the difference in size and brightness might not be dramatic to the casual observer, the supermoon does appear about 7% larger and 15% brighter than a typical full moon. This effect is further enhanced by the ‘moon illusion,’ which makes the moon appear even larger when it is near the horizon. This September’s supermoon is the second of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, following the sturgeon moon in August and preceding the supermoons in October and November.

A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon. During a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the moon enters Earth’s darkest shadow, known as the umbra. The rest of the moon remains in the penumbra, or the outer part of Earth’s shadow, which gives it a subtle reddish-brown hue. This particular eclipse will darken the upper portion of the moon, providing an interesting view for those equipped with telescopes or binoculars. Even without specialized equipment, the eclipse will be a fascinating sight, especially given the moon’s enhanced size and brightness due to its supermoon status.

The timing of the eclipse will vary depending on your location. For observers in the eastern United States, the darkest phase of the eclipse will occur around 10:44 pm EDT on September 17th. In Europe and Africa, the greatest eclipse will be visible in the pre-dawn hours of September 18th, with London experiencing the peak at approximately 3:45 am BST. To find specific times for your location, websites like inthesky.org provide detailed charts and interactive maps. Regardless of where you are, it’s worth planning ahead to ensure you don’t miss this celestial event.

The harvest moon is traditionally the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, which occurs on September 22nd this year. It has been named the harvest moon because it historically provided farmers with extra light to harvest their crops late into the evening. Different cultures have various names and significances for this moon. For example, Indigenous groups in North America often refer to it in relation to the harvesting of corn and other crops. The harvest moon is also linked to abundance and gratitude, marking the end of the growing season and the beginning of the fall.

Weather conditions can significantly affect the visibility of the harvest moon and the partial lunar eclipse. According to Accuweather, some areas may experience cloud cover, which could obscure the view. Regions like Worcester and Springfield might face difficulties seeing the harvest moon due to predicted clouds, while Boston may also experience cloudy weather during the overnight hours. It’s always a good idea to check local weather forecasts and find a clear viewing spot if possible. Stargazers are encouraged to stay patient and keep an eye on the sky throughout the night.

For those interested in capturing the event, photographing the moon can be both challenging and rewarding. A good telescope, such as the Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ, can enhance your viewing experience and help you capture detailed images. Even with smaller optics or a good camera, you can achieve impressive results. Space.com offers excellent resources and tips for photographing celestial events, including the moon. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, this supermoon and partial lunar eclipse provide a fantastic opportunity to practice and improve your skills.

The September new moon in Virgo, occurring on September 2nd, also brings its own set of influences and opportunities. New moons are traditionally a time for new beginnings and setting intentions. The Virgo influence encourages organization, eco-friendliness, and sustainable living. This is an ideal time to declutter your life, reevaluate old habits, and focus on self-care. The energy of Virgo also inspires learning new things, sharing knowledge, and caring for animals. Small actions taken now can lead to significant changes by the Virgo full moon in March 2025.

In addition to its organizational influences, the Virgo new moon prompts a reevaluation of health and work routines. Creating a more efficient and eco-friendly work environment can lead to long-term benefits. There’s also a stronger urge to help others, which can positively impact both the community and personal karma. This new moon inspires kindness towards animals, whether through lifestyle changes, diet, or volunteering. Relationships also benefit from the fresh energy, with a focus on balanced and healthy interactions where giving and receiving are equal.

Creativity is another aspect highlighted by the Virgo new moon. Making things with your hands, whether it’s crafting, cooking, or gardening, can be particularly fulfilling during this time. The new moon encourages precision and fact-based communication, steering away from gossip and misinformation. It’s a good time to learn something new, teach, or mentor others, which can lead to significant growth over the next six months. The emphasis on eco-friendliness may also motivate you to switch to more sustainable products and practices, contributing to a healthier planet.

The combination of the harvest moon, supermoon, and partial lunar eclipse in September 2024 makes for a spectacular celestial event. It’s a time to marvel at the wonders of the universe and reflect on our place within it. Whether you’re an avid skywatcher or simply enjoy looking up at the night sky, this month’s events offer something special for everyone. From the scientific explanations behind these phenomena to the cultural and historical significance of the harvest moon, there’s much to appreciate and explore. So mark your calendars, prepare your telescopes, and get ready for an unforgettable night under the stars.

As we look forward to this celestial spectacle, it’s also a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the universe. Events like these inspire curiosity and wonder, encouraging us to learn more about the cosmos and our own planet. They also provide a sense of connection, as people around the world come together to witness the same event. Whether you’re viewing the harvest moon and partial lunar eclipse alone or with loved ones, take a moment to appreciate the shared experience and the natural world around us. Here’s to clear skies and a memorable night of stargazing!