The 2024 Hunter's Supermoon: 7 Must-Know Facts About The Largest Full Moon Of The Year
Get ready to witness the celestial showstopper of the year: the October 2024 Full Moon. This isn't just any ordinary lunar event; it is the highly anticipated Hunter's Supermoon, officially slated as the largest and brightest full moon of 2024. Occurring at a time when the Moon is closest to Earth in its elliptical orbit, this Supermoon promises a breathtaking spectacle for sky-gazers worldwide, appearing up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.
As of late December 2025, astronomical data confirms that this particular October full moon will be the most impressive of the year’s four consecutive Supermoons. To ensure you don't miss this rare opportunity, we have compiled the definitive guide on when to watch it, what makes it so special, and the best ways to experience its stunning visual impact.
The Hunter's Supermoon 2024: Essential Astronomical Profile
For those planning their viewing schedule, timing is everything. The October 2024 full moon is officially the third in a series of four Supermoons that graced the 2024 calendar, but it is the one that achieves the closest proximity to Earth, making it the most visually dramatic.
- Event Name: Hunter's Supermoon (The largest Supermoon of 2024)
- Peak Illumination Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024.
- Peak Illumination Time (UTC): 11:26 UTC.
- Peak Illumination Time (CST/CDT): 6:26 pm CST.
- Visible As Full: The Moon will appear full to the naked eye for approximately three nights, from the evening of October 16 to the morning of October 19.
- Astronomical Phenomenon: Full Moon coinciding with perigee (or within 90% of perigee).
The term Supermoon is a popular, non-scientific name coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979. Astronomically, it refers to a Full Moon (or New Moon) that occurs when the Moon is at or near its closest point to Earth, known as perigee, in its elliptical orbit. This close proximity is what dramatically increases the Moon's apparent size and luminosity in the night sky.
7 Fascinating Facts About the October Supermoon
The Hunter's Supermoon is more than just a beautiful sight; it is a convergence of astronomical precision and rich cultural history. Understanding these details adds significant depth to the viewing experience.
1. Why It’s Called the Hunter’s Moon
The name "Hunter's Moon" is rooted in ancient folklore and tradition, primarily from Native American tribes, most notably the Algonquin. This full moon falls immediately after the Harvest Moon (the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox). The Hunter's Moon signaled the optimal time to hunt, as the deer and other game were fattened up before winter, and the fields had been cleared of crops, allowing hunters to see their prey more easily.
Furthermore, the high, bright light of the Moon rising relatively early in the evening provided extra illumination for hunters to track game and prepare for the coming cold season.
2. It Is the Closest and Brightest Full Moon of 2024
While 2024 featured a series of Supermoons, the October event is the most significant. Astronomical calculations confirm that the Moon will be at its closest point to Earth during this full phase compared to the other 2024 Supermoons. This means it will appear at its maximum size and brightness for the year, a true spectacle for any dedicated sky-watcher.
3. The Moon Illusion Effect Will Be Extreme
The best time to view the Supermoon is immediately after sunset, when it is low on the eastern horizon. When the Moon is near the horizon, a psychological phenomenon known as the Moon Illusion causes it to look even larger than usual. This happens because our brains compare the Moon's size to familiar foreground objects like trees and buildings, tricking us into perceiving it as massive.
4. The Supermoon Has a Measurable Impact on Tides
The gravitational pull of the Moon is the primary driver of Earth's ocean tides. Because a Supermoon occurs when the Moon is at perigee, its gravitational force is slightly stronger than usual. This results in a phenomenon known as Perigean Spring Tides, where the high tides are abnormally high and the low tides are abnormally low. While this effect is typically minor, it can be exacerbated in coastal areas, especially those prone to flooding.
5. No Special Equipment is Necessary for Viewing
Unlike distant planets or faint galaxies, the Supermoon is a bright, naked-eye event. You do not need a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the spectacle. In fact, the most impressive view—the Moon Illusion—is best appreciated with the unaided eye. However, a pair of binoculars can enhance the experience by revealing the detailed features of the lunar surface, such as the maria (dark plains) and prominent craters.
6. Ancient Lore Connects It to Odin and Preparation
Beyond the Native American traditions, the Hunter's Moon holds significance in other cultures. In Norse mythology, it was believed that the god Odin would ride across the sky during this moon, guiding hunters and signaling a shift toward winter. The moon is universally associated with themes of gathering, preparation, and survival, marking the final push before the harshness of the cold season sets in.
7. Pro Tips for Photographing the Supermoon
Capturing the Supermoon's majesty requires a few technical adjustments, as it is much brighter than a typical night sky. Professional photographers recommend the following:
- Use a Tripod: Essential for stability and sharpness, especially when using a telephoto lens to zoom in on the lunar surface.
- Shoot at Moonrise/Moonset: Frame the moon with a foreground object (like a building or tree) to maximize the Moon Illusion effect and create a sense of scale.
- Adjust ISO and Aperture: Start with a low ISO (around 100-400) and a relatively small aperture (high f-number) to prevent overexposure, as the Moon is very bright.
- Lens Choice: Use a wide-angle lens (8-35mm) to emphasize the Moon within a landscape, or a telephoto lens (200mm+) to make the Moon itself appear huge.
The Astronomical Significance of Perigee and Apogee
To fully grasp the "Super" in Supermoon, it is important to understand the Moon's orbital mechanics. The Moon does not orbit the Earth in a perfect circle; its path is an ellipse. This elliptical orbit means the distance between the Earth and the Moon constantly changes.
- Perigee: The point in the orbit where the Moon is closest to Earth. This is the condition that creates a Supermoon.
- Apogee: The point in the orbit where the Moon is farthest from Earth. A full moon at apogee is sometimes called a Micromoon.
The difference in distance between perigee and apogee can be up to 30,000 miles (48,280 km). This variation is what causes the visible change in size and brightness, making the October 2024 Hunter's Supermoon a truly exceptional event.
In summary, the Hunter's Supermoon on October 17, 2024, is the astronomical highlight of the year. Whether you are a casual observer or a dedicated astrophotographer, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos. Mark your calendar for the evening of October 16th and 17th, find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, and prepare to be amazed by the largest and brightest full moon of 2024.
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