The rising Full Moon of September 9, 2022, the Harvest Moon for 2022, coming up over a rolling … [+] harvested prairie field near home in southern Alberta, on a very clear evening. (Photo by: Alan Dyer/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
You’ve heard of the “Harvest Moon.” Everyone has, but why? It’s just another full moon, one of 13 in 2023, so why is September’s full moon special?
Officially 100% full at 4:59 a.m. EDT on Friday, September 29, 2023—and best viewed as it appears on the eastern horizon at moonrise where you are later that day during dusk—the “Harvest Moon” truly is something special. Here’s why:
1. It’s Defined By The Equinox
2. This Year It’s Also A ‘Supermoon’
The full Harvest Moon rises over wind turbines with a recently harvested wheat field below.
LightRocket via Getty Images
3. It’s Traditionally Adored By Farmers
4. It Will Light-Up The Sky For Several Nights
The “Harvest Moon” is known for its illumination and will light up the sky for several nights.
To tie up all the loose ends, the “Harvest Moon” is a special full moon that is defined by the equinox, serves as a supermoon in 2023, holds significance for farmers, and provides bright illumination for several nights.
