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Harvest Moon October 2025: Skywatchers across the world are in for a celestial treat as the first supermoon of 2025 , known as the Harvest Moon , will rise on Monday night, October 6, glowing larger and brighter than usual. According to NASA, this month’s full moon will appear up to 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than the faintest full moon of the year.

The October full moon is the first of three consecutive supermoons set to grace the skies this year, followed by ones in November and December. The moon will reach its peak brightness at 11:47 pm EST (3:47 a.m. IST on October 7) when it will be just about 3,61,457 kilometres from Earth, around 10 per cent closer than average.

Why It’s Called Harvest Moon?

A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, known as the perigee. Because the moon’s orbit is slightly elliptical, its distance from Earth varies each month. When the two events align, the moon appears slightly larger and more luminous to the naked eye.Astronomer Derrick Pitts of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia explained that while the visual difference can be subtle, the moon’s brilliance during a supermoon is undeniable. “It’s not really very unusual, but it’s a spectacular sight if skies are clear,” he said.

The term “Harvest Moon” dates back centuries and refers to the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, which fell on September 22 this year. Traditionally, the moon’s bright light helped farmers extend their harvest late into the evening, marking the end of the growing season. While September often hosts the Harvest Moon, the lunar calendar occasionally shifts the timing to early October , and 2025 marks the latest Harvest Moon since 1987.

How And When To Watch The Supermoon?

•The Moon will rise in the eastern horizon around dusk on October 6 and appear full for the next couple of nights.

•In the UK, the full moon is expected to rise at around 18:20 GMT on October 7.

•Viewers in India and across Asia can look eastward just after sunset for the best view.

•The golden-orange tint seen near the horizon is due to atmospheric scattering, giving it a warm “pumpkin moon” appearance.

For the best experience, astronomers recommend finding an elevated spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. No telescope is needed,though binoculars will enhance the sight of lunar craters and dark plains known as mare.

Adding to the spectacle, the Draconid meteor shower will peak around October 8, though the bright supermoon may outshine some of the faint meteors. Still, lucky viewers might spot a few “shooting stars” streaking across the sky.

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The next supermoon, the Beaver Moon is expected on November 5, which will be the closest and largest of 2025. As always, clear skies will be key. While much of southern England and Wales may enjoy ideal viewing conditions, some northern regions could face cloud cover. In India, the supermoon is expected to rise around 6:30 p.m. IST, visible across most parts of the country if the weather permits.

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As the Harvest Moon ascends, casting its golden light over fields and cities alike, it marks not just a celestial event but a seasonal milestone, one that continues to captivate skywatchers year after year.