October’s much-anticipated Hunter’s Moon, the largest and brightest supermoon of the year, will light up the skies later this week. Set to rise at dusk and set at dawn, this supermoon will be only 357,364 kilometers from Earth — the closest full moon of 2024.

Known as a perigean full moon, or supermoon, it will appear about 30% brighter and 15% bigger than a regular full moon.

Officially reaching its full phase on Thursday, October 17, at 7:26 a.m. EDT, the Hunter’s Moon will shine in the constellation Pisces and be visible for two nights surrounding the peak.

As it rises, the supermoon will be positioned between Saturn and Jupiter, with Jupiter following about an hour after moonrise.

According to reports Jupiter and the moon will rise together in a celestial display on Sunday, October 20.

The term “Hunter’s Moon” originates from Anglo-Saxon tradition, marking the time when hunters prepared for the harsh winter ahead.

It’s also known as the Falling Leaves Moon and the Blood Moon (not to be confused with a lunar eclipse).

This full moon is the first of spring, following September’s Harvest Moon, and will be the brightest spectacle until November’s Beaver Moon, the last supermoon of 2024. Make sure to step outside for this rare sight!

Here is a list of South African full moons in 2024:

• Jan 25, 19:54 Mantis Moon
• Feb 24, 14:30 Dassie Moon
• Mar 25, 09:00 Harvest Moon
• Apr 23, 01:54 Diamond Moon
• May 23, 15:54 Frost Moon
• Jun 22, 03:12 Sisters Moon
• Jul 21, 12:12 Meerkat Moon
• Aug 19, 20:24 Peace Moon
• Sep 18, 04:36 Spring Moon
• Oct 17, 13:30 Whale Moon
• Nov 15, 23:30 Milk Moon
• Dec 15, 11:06 Springbok Moon

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