Hunter's Supermoon will appear tonight – here's the best way to see it

Topline

The moon is expected to be near its closest point to Earth tonight, leading to what experts say will be the largest supermoon this year, an unofficial astronomical phenomenon that occurs up to four times a year.

Important facts

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When can I see the supermoon?

According to NOAA, the moon will rise starting at 5:46 p.m. EDT on Wednesday and become full around 11:35 p.m. Espenak predicted the supermoon will become full and reach its closest point to Earth at 11:26 p.m. EDT on Thursday.

How can I see the supermoon?

According to NASA, the supermoon will be visible across Earth regardless of light pollution, although it is better to be in areas without clouds. According to the National Weather Service, skies are expected to be clear across most of the central U.S. Wednesday evening, although some areas in some states – including Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming and Nevada – will likely be cloudy. The same clouds are expected to move east Thursday evening, with cloudier skies forecast for Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Surprising fact

October's full moon is also known as the “Hunter's Moon” because it marks the start of hunting season and signals hunters to prepare for colder conditions, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. The “Hunter’s Moon” follows the “Harvest Moon,” a lunar phase that signals to harvesters the best time to harvest their crops.

Further reading

ForbesJust the time to see this week's Super Hunter's Moon at its bestFrom Jamie Carter