When people hear “Harvest Moon,” they typically think of the September full moon. However, about every three years, the Harvest Moon actually appears in October.
This is one of those years, meaning September’s full moon is referred to as the Corn Moon.
The designation of the Harvest Moon depends on which full moon is nearest to the autumn equinox. This year, the equinox is on September 22. October’s full moon on the 6th is closer to this date than September’s full moon, which occurred on September 7.
The Corn Moon peaks in illumination Sunday afternoon, before it rises overhead. But it’ll still appear full and bright on Sunday evening.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, Asia will have the chance to enjoy the year’s second total lunar eclipse.
This weekend, Earth’s shadow will cover the full moon as Earth aligns exactly between the moon and the sun. The total eclipse phase will last for one hour and 22 minutes, while the entire event, starting with the initial shadow on the moon, will take over five hours.
The lunar eclipse that happened in March provided great views for people in the Americas. The upcoming event, known as a blood moon because of its reddish appearance, will be visible on the other side of the world this Sunday night and into Monday morning, local time.
In Asia, areas from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines, extending as far north as the Arctic Ocean and south to Antarctica, will see the entire eclipse. Eastern Africa, the western half of Australia, and some regions will witness the complete event. In contrast, Europe, the rest of Africa, and Australia will only see part of it. People along Brazil’s coast and in portions of Alaska will also catch a glimpse of the eclipse.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
