If you’re a fan of sky-gazing, make sure you mark Friday night off in your diary.
That evening, we’ll be treated to a Harvest Moon , during which the moon will have its face fully illuminated in the night sky.
The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the September equinox each year, which only means one thing - autumn is finally almost upon us!
Here’s everything you need to know about the Harvest Moon, including what it is, and how you can see it.
When is the Harvest Moon?
The Harvest Moon will appear on the evening of Friday 13 September. Spooky, we know.
The moon should be visible after sunset, which is at 19:20 BST, although the Harvest Moon will peak in the early hours of Saturday morning, at 04:34 BST.
What is a Harvest Moon?
The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the September equinox every year.
A full moon takes place when our lunar satellite is located on the opposite side of the Earth as the sun.
This means that the moon’s face is fully illuminated in the night sky.
Why is it called the Harvest Moon?
This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Harvest Moon, because it took place during the time of year when corn was harvested.
For that same reason, you may also hear it referred to as the Full Corn Moon.
When is the next full moon?
If you miss the Harvest Moon, thankfully there’s not long to wait until the next full moon.
The next full moon will appear on October 13. This full moon is known as the Full Hunters Moon, the Travel Moon and the Blood Moon.
