Final Supermoon of 2023 to Illuminate the Sky This September
As September draws to a close, sky gazers and beauty enthusiasts alike are gearing up for the grand finale of the year’s supermoon show. This upcoming supermoon will mark the end of a breathtaking streak of four consecutive supermoons, making it a celestial event not to be missed.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it closest to Earth at the same time as the moon reaches its full phase. This unique alignment results in a moon that appears about 16% brighter and larger than an average full moon, offering a visual treat for sky watchers worldwide.
Set to take place on the last week of September, this particular supermoon will be approximately 224,854 miles from Earth. This proximity will make it about 5% bigger and 13% brighter than an average full moon in 2023, promising a stunning display of lunar brilliance that will captivate anyone who ventures outside.
The supermoon is expected to rise between Thursday night and Friday morning, with its peak illumination slated for 5:58 a.m. EDT on Friday. Coincidentally, this full moon in September is traditionally dubbed the “Harvest” moon due to its proximity to the autumnal equinox, making it an especially poignant sight for farmers and those in the Northern Hemisphere engaged in crop harvesting.
To fully appreciate the beauty of this supermoon and perhaps capture its magnificence on camera, seasoned sky watchers suggest going outdoors and simply looking up. For a more detailed view, binoculars or telescopes can be used to amplify the moon’s features and provide a clearer glimpse of its surface.
For those aspiring photographers eager to snap a picture-perfect shot of the supermoon, a few tips are worth considering. Firstly, stabilizing your cellphone or camera is crucial to avoid any unintentional movement that might blur the image. Additionally, turning off the flash is advised to prevent washing out the natural radiance of the moon. Lastly, experts recommend using a timer or a remote shutter release to minimize any shaking that could occur when pressing the button, allowing for sharper and more pristine images.
For those who desire even more in-depth guidance on lunar photography, NASA has made available a comprehensive lunar photography guide online. This resource is a valuable tool for photographers of all skill levels, offering insights and techniques for capturing the supermoon in all its celestial splendor.
With the curtain closing on the supermoon saga of 2023, this final lunar extravaganza promises an awe-inspiring spectacle that will bring beauty enthusiasts and sky watchers together under the vast expanse of the night sky. So mark your calendars, charge your cameras, and prepare to witness the celestial marvel of the last supermoon of the year.
