SEATTLE — Skywatchers will have three chances this fall to catch a “supermoon,” when the moon appears bigger and brighter than usual.
The first arrives Monday, Oct. 6, with the “Harvest” Moon. As the first full moon of the fall season, it will appear up to 30% brighter and 14% larger than normal because the moon will be near perigee, the closest point in its orbit to Earth.
It will be followed by the “Beaver” Moon on Nov. 5 and the “Cold” Moon on Dec. 4, rounding out a trio of consecutive supermoons in 2025.
According to Almanac.com, the “Beaver” Moon will be the closest to Earth, at about 221,817 miles away. By comparison, the “Harvest” Moon will be roughly 224,600 miles from Earth.
Supermoons do more than brighten the night sky. They also amplify tides. For example, in Hoquiam, Washington, the high tide on Oct. 3 is projected at 8.43 feet. But during the Oct. 6 supermoon, tides are expected to climb to 10.63 feet, with even higher levels forecast the following day.
Supermoons occur when a full moon aligns with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. The effect can make the moon look unusually large when viewed near the horizon and significantly brighter overhead.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that the higher-than-normal tides associated with full and supermoons can sometimes contribute to minor coastal flooding in low-lying areas.
Whether you’re a night-sky enthusiast or just a casual observer, the next few months promise a glowing celestial show.
트위터 공유: 가을 밤하늘 빛나는 슈퍼문 3연속 등장!