On October 17, 2024, skywatchers will witness a unique celestial phenomenon—the Hunter's Moon. This full moon will be especially striking, as it’s also a supermoon, appearing 40% larger and 30% brighter than usual. Historically, the Hunter's Moon signaled the start of the hunting season as preparation for winter.
The Hunter's Moon is tonight, October 17, 2024. More importantly, it's the third supermoon of the year. At 7:26 AM EDT (4:56 PM IST), this full moon will be at its peak, though it will appear very bright and even gigantic at about 222,056 miles (357,364 kilometers) away from our planet.
Significance of the Hunter's Moon
Historical Context: The Hunter's Moon occurs after the Harvest Moon, which is the first full moon nearest to the autumnal equinox. Traditionally, it marked a time when hunters could start preparing for winter by hunting game that was more visible once crops had been harvested.
Cultural Import: The same full moon is observed as a harvest moon, the last moon during monsoon seasons especially the Hindu one, and is the beginning of harvesting work for the farmers, since it is a foreteller of harvest actions.
Observation Potential
Visibility: Hunter's Moon will be out all night long. It rises in the east not long after sunset. It is best to be seen during twilight when it is extra bright and large.
Unique Features: Unlike the other full moons, which rise about 50 minutes later each night, Hunter's and Harvest Moon rise some 30 minutes later in the evening. There is less time between sunset and moonrise, so twilight lingers longer to stretch out the observers.
Tonight, October 17, 2024, marks the occurrence of the Hunter's Moon, which is also a supermoon—the closest full moon of the year. This celestial event will be visible all night, with its peak brightness occurring at approximately 4:56 PM IST. The moon will be about 351,519 kilometres away from Earth tonight, making it appear about 40% larger and 30% brighter than usual due to its proximity to our planet.
Lucknow-based people will get a rare view. The Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Lucknow and the UP Amateur Astronomers' Club have planned to align four more telescopes at the Abhinav Gupta Bhawan of Lucknow University for people viewing. It is free of cost and people can see other celestial objects apart from the Hunter's Moon.
The Hunter's Moon is as its name suggests a name given in the light of traditions. It is named so as it occurs after the Harvest Moon. Historically it was used to signal the time for hunters to stock up on food for the winter. Observers are enjoined to look for a spot with clear views and little to no light pollution, to view this spectacular display of the lunar phase.
The Hunter's Moon, with its stunning brightness and size, is a perfect opportunity for observers to marvel at the beauty of the night sky. Whether you're in Lucknow enjoying the special viewing or finding a spot with minimal light pollution, this supermoon promises a memorable experience for all sky enthusiasts.
Also Read | Supermoon in 2024: List of Full Moon Names, Dates and Where to Watch
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