In brief
Sky-watchers around the globe enjoyed the spectacle of a striking supermoon this week, renowned for its brightness and size. Known as the Hunter's Moon and also referred to as the Harvest Moon, this event coincides with historic traditions of winter preparation and agricultural practices. Spanning cities from Paris to New York, the supermoon enhanced the nighttime landscape during cultural festivities like China's Mid-Autumn festival. Observers missed this celestial event, can look forward to more supermoons in the coming months.
Sky-watchers across the globe were treated to a supermoon this week, appearing brighter and larger in the evening sky.
A supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its perigee in orbit, meaning it is at its closest point to the Earth.
This is a special supermoon known by multiple names. It's called the Hunter's Moon because it's the first full moon in October. The name harks back to historic preparations for winter in the northern hemisphere, where people would hunt and preserve meats.
It's also known as the Harvest Moon, designated for the full moon that rises closest to the autumn equinox (22 September). Its nickname recalls a time when farmers would use the moon's brightness to collect crops in the evening.
The supermoon sparkled on Monday night, lighting up China's night sky during the Mid-Autumn festival.
Did you miss the supermoon? Or did those rude clouds block the view? Fear not - another two supermoons are expected in November and December.
