Full Harvest Moon Peaks Tonight, Get Your Binoculars Ready

The Northern Hemisphere will look a little brighter tonight as the full harvest moon graces us with it’s presence.

The “harvest moon” received it’s name because it’s appearance low in the sky traditionally gave farmers extra time to harvest their crops. Before the invention of electricity farmer’s came to rely on the moon for harvesting after sunset.

A few more facts about the harvest moon:

1. The moon rises on average 50 minutes later each night, however during the harvest moon it can rise between 25 to 30 minutes later across the United States.

2. In other northern Hemisphere locations (Canada and Europe) the moon can rise just 10 to 20 minutes later.

The peak for the harvest moon will be reached at 5:27 a.m EDT on Monday September 12.

The “harvest moon” is typically given it’s full designation during the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox which occurs this year on Sept. 23.

Anyone wanting to see the moon will have to hope for clear skies and for the best viewing an area outside of city lights is recommend since those lights can drown out the effects of the harvest moon.

Watchers should be aware that under the harvest moon detailed features found on the moon can be seen with a regular pair of binoculars or small telescopes.

Do you plan to watch the peaking period of the harvest moon tonight?