Harvest Moon
September 2024 Full Moon
Full Moon
100% illuminated
Countdown to Full Moon
Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 2:34 AM Coordinated Universal Time
Your timezone: UTC
About the Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon is the famous full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. Its bright light, rising close to sunset for several evenings in a row, traditionally allowed farmers to work late into the night to bring in their crops.
🔭 Viewing Guide
The Harvest Moon is famously bright and low-hanging. Watch it from a place with a low, clear horizon, like a prairie, a large field, or a coastal area. Its golden glow is particularly stunning as it rises.
Quick Facts
📸 Photography Tips
- • Use a tripod for sharp images
- • Best time: 1-2 hours after moonrise
- • Try different focal lengths
- • Include foreground elements
- • Shoot in RAW format
🌤️ Weather Check
Remember to check local weather conditions before heading out to view the Harvest Moon!
🌍 Suggested Viewing Location
Death Valley National Park, California
Coordinates: 36.53°N, 116.82°W
Why this location?
This location offers excellent dark skies and minimal light pollution, making it ideal for moon viewing and photography.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Harvest Moon special?
The Harvest Moon is unique because for several nights in a row, the moonrise occurs very close to the time of sunset. This provides a prolonged period of bright moonlight, which was historically crucial for farmers.
Can the Harvest Moon be in October?
Yes. The Harvest Moon is defined as the full moon closest to the Autumn Equinox (around September 22). Most years it falls in September, but about once every three years, it occurs in early October.