The supermoon, also known as the Harvest Moon, is set to dazzle the skies and skywatchers are advised not to miss it.
The first supermoon of 2025 will rise shortly after sunset, making it an excellent time for skywatchers to enjoy this spectacular lunar event.
The celestial event will be visible on the evening of October 6 and the early hours of October 7, 2025.
WHEN TO WATCH THE SUPERMOON?
The best viewing time is immediately after sunset on October 6, looking towards the eastern horizon, away from city lights to reduce light pollution.
Scientifically, a supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, called the perigee.
As the Moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle, sometimes it is closer and appears larger and nearly 30% brighter than a typical full moon. Although the difference in size is subtle to the naked eye, the Moon’s apparent size feels larger due to the “moon illusion,” especially when it is low near the horizon.
The supermoon’s increased gravitational pull can also cause slightly higher tides on Earth.
WILL IT BE VISIBLE IN INDIA?
The supermoon will be visible in India on the evening of October 6 and the early hours of October 7, 2025.
Almost every city in India will witness the celestial event. However, it will depend on weather conditions and cloud cover in the region.
While it may not be seen at its peak in India due to timing with daylight, the full moon will still appear large, bright, and golden in the night sky.
The Harvest Supermoon will also be visible across many countries in the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, North America, the United Kingdom, and parts of the United States. In the US, the supermoon peaks late on October 6, and in the UK, it rises on October 7, providing an extended viewing window over consecutive evenings.
Countries in these regions will see the moon larger and brighter than usual because it occurs closest to Earth’s orbit, near the autumn equinox, a traditional time for the Harvest Moon.
This October supermoon is especially notable as it is the first of three consecutive supermoons in 2025, a rare sequence for the year. The event offers a beautiful opportunity for skywatchers and photographers alike to reconnect with the celestial spectacle of Earth’s only natural satellite.
