All You Need To Know About 2024's Second Supermoon

Supermoon is a glorious event to witness a nigh in which a larger than usual size moon graces the sky as result of coinciding with perigee, the closest proximity that the moon comes to earth in its elliptic orbit.

Supermoon: The dazzling spectacle 

Mark your calendars for an extraordinary celestial event this September! The second supermoon of 2024 will grace the night sky between September 17 and 18, coinciding with a partial lunar eclipse. This supermoon not only dazzles with its larger-than-usual size but also carries the title of “harvest moon,” making it a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts.

Supermoons occur when the moon reaches perigee, its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit. In 2024, there are four supermoons, with the first being the Sturgeon moon on August 19. The upcoming harvest moon is particularly special as it lights up the skies around the autumn equinox, traditionally aiding farmers in harvesting summer crops due to its bright illumination. Harvest moons are also known for their striking orange and red hues, creating a stunning visual display.

The September supermoon

The supermoon on September 17 will feature a partial lunar eclipse, an event where only part of the moon passes through Earth’s shadow. Unlike a total lunar eclipse, this phenomenon occurs when the three celestial bodies are not perfectly aligned, resulting in a portion of the moon remaining illuminated.

According to NASA, the supermoon will reach its peak at 10:35 PM EDT on September 17, which translates to 2:35 PM GMT on September 18 and 8:05 AM IST. The peak of the partial lunar eclipse will occur shortly after, at 10:44 PM EDT.

Looking ahead, two more supermoons are scheduled for October 17 and November 15. Although the September supermoon won’t be visible in India, viewers can catch the action via NASA’s official website or various astronomy channels on YouTube. Don’t miss this chance to witness a unique blend of celestial events.