On 7 October, the Harvest Moon will rise around 7pm and shine brightly through the evening. The Full Moon closest to the September equinox, its name originates from its historical role of helping farmers gather crops under its evening glow. People in Singapore can enjoy the Harvest Moon from anywhere with clear skies, with panoramic vantage points such as Marina Barrage, East Coast Park and the Southern Ridges offering especially striking views.
Image: Pixabay
About Full moons, Supermoons, and Blue Moons
1. What is a Supermoon?
A Supermoon is a Full Moon that appears larger and brighter than usual. This phenomenon occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth, making the moon appear nearly 6-7% larger than usual.
2. What is a Blue Moon?
There are two different definitions for a Blue Moon:
- Seasonal Blue Moon: There are just three Full Moons in an astronomical season. However, in some years there are four Full Moons in a season. As such in these rare occurrences, the third Full Moon is termed as a Blue Moon.
- Monthly Blue moon: In a calendar month when there are two Full Moons, the second one is termed as the Blue Moon.
About the upcoming Harvest Moon
1. What is the Harvest Moon and how did it get its name?
The Harvest Moon is the name given to the Full Moon closest to the September equinox, which falls on 22 September this year. The equinox marks when the Earth’s axis is perpendicular to the Sun’s rays, heralding the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike most Full Moon names, which are tied to specific months, the Harvest Moon is unique – its timing is determined by the equinox. Most years, it falls in September, though it appears in October roughly once every three years. The name comes from its seasonal significance in the Northern Hemisphere, where its bright light during early evenings once helped farmers gather crops during the harvest season.
2. When will the Harvest Moon be visible?
The Harvest Moon will begin rising around 7pm on 7 October, and should be at an easily appreciable height at around 8pm onwards in Singapore.
3. Where is the best place to view the Harvest Moon?
Like most full moons, the Harvest Moon should be easily visible anywhere in Singapore as long as the skies are clear. For an unobstructed and potentially elevated view of the Harvest Moon with panoramic views of the city skyline, visit open public areas like the Marina Barrage, East Coast Park, and the Southern Ridges.
4. Can the Supermoon be viewed with the naked eye?
Yes, the Harvest Moon will be visible to the naked eye. No special equipment is required.
5. When is the next Supermoon?
There will be two other Supermoons this year, the Beaver Moon on 5 November and the Cold Moon on 4 December. They will also be visible to the naked eye, provided the skies are clear and there is an unobstructed view.
6. Will the Observatory at Science Centre Singapore hold a viewing session for the Harvest Moon?
The Observatory at Science Centre Singapore will be holding an Astronomy Open House on 3 & 4 October, in conjunction with Lights by the Lake, which is organised by NParks. Visitors can enjoy complimentary stargazing on both evenings – a chance to admire the Moon and Saturn through telescopes, weather permitting.
The Astronomy Open House will also feature a special live digital planetarium show – Fly to the Moon, taking audiences on a virtual journey to the Moon and back. Shows run every half hour from 7.00pm to 10.00pm (with the last show at 9.30pm), and complimentary tickets will be available for collection in person at The Observatory from 6.30pm onwards.
In addition, young guests can also participate in a mid-autumn edition of the I am a Young Astronomer Young Scientist Badge activities at both The Observatory and the Water Lily Pavilion at Jurong Lake Gardens.
Contributed by Science Centre Observatory.
Halloween is on 31 October and is creeping up fast. We have compiled a list of Halloween Parties in Singapore just for you!
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