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A spectacular lunar event took place on September 17, 2024, at night, when the bright Harvest Supermoon aligned with a partial lunar eclipse. Skywatchers from North and South America, Europe, and portions of Africa were enthralled with this singular phenomena. Just before the eclipse started, the Harvest Moon, which is known for helping farmers throughout the fall harvest, glowed brightly as it approached its maximum fullness.
How Important the Harvest Supermoon Is
The full moon that happens closest to the autumnal equinox, which falls on September 22 this year, is known as the Harvest Moon. Its brilliant light historically made it possible for farmers to continue harvesting into the night, making it a crucial period for agricultural activity. As a supermoon, which happens when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit and appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual, this year’s Harvest Moon was especially noteworthy. These two occurrences came together to produce an eye-catching orange moon that lit up the night sky.
A Starry Event Takes Place
Around 10:13 p.m. ET, the partial lunar eclipse started, and at 10:44 p.m. ET, it reached its maximum level of obscuration. About 8% of the moon’s surface was illuminated by Earth’s umbra at this peak moment, producing a striking effect on NASA compared to a “bite” taken out of the moon. Viewers were treated to a breathtaking change in the moon’s appearance as the eclipse went on, with some areas reporting a crimson tint that is commonly known as a “blood moon.” This happens because red light can travel through Earth’s atmosphere whereas blue light is scattered.
No special equipment was needed to view the event, however binoculars or telescopes made the experience even more immersive by displaying minute details of the lunar surface and the eclipse’s path. This unique opportunity to connect with the wonders of our universe was made possible by the uncommon conjunction of a supermoon and a partial lunar eclipse, which attracted both ardent observers and casual viewers. For those who are lucky enough to experience it, this celestial trifecta will be even more special because the next total lunar eclipse is predicted to occur in 2025.
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