Enjoying the Supermoon: When and How to Watch

Supermoons are a fun way to see the moon look bigger and brighter in the sky. The next supermoon will be on October 17.

A supermoon happens when the moon is closest to Earth and looks full. It appears larger and brighter, especially compared to things like trees or mountains.

What Is a Full Moon?

Full moons happen when the part of the moon facing Earth is fully lit by the sun.

So, a supermoon is a type of full moon. When a full moon is farthest from Earth, it’s called a micromoon.

Interesting Names for Supermoons

Supermoons often have special names. For example, a "Strawberry Supermoon" usually happens at the end of June, named for the strawberry harvest in North America.

In Europe, it’s called a "Mead Moon" or "Honey Moon" because it’s the time to harvest honey. It’s also known as a "Rose Moon" because it happens when roses bloom.

Best Times to See a Supermoon

Supermoons can look 14 to 17% bigger and 30% brighter than micromoons.

To see one clearly, try to find a spot with a clear sky. You can use binoculars or a small telescope to see details on the moon’s surface.

The best times to watch the moon are when it rises right after sunset and when it sets just before sunrise.

At these times, the moon looks even bigger next to things on the ground.

How Often Do Supermoons Happen?

Full moons occur every 29.5 days, but supermoons usually happen about three to four times a year.

You can enjoy a supermoon for about three days.

If you’re really lucky, you might see a super blood moon, which happens when a lunar eclipse occurs on the same night as a supermoon.