September 2024: A Celestial Spectacle with a Supermoon and Partial Lunar Eclipse
Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat this September as a supermoon coincides with a partial lunar eclipse, creating a breathtaking celestial display. The full moon, known as the Harvest Moon, will occur on the night of September 17th to 18th, 2024, providing an exceptional opportunity for skywatchers across Germany and the United States to witness this extraordinary event.
The supermoon will reach its full phase at 04:34 CEST on September 18, while the closest approach to Earth will happen later that day at 15:23, with the moon sitting at a mere 357,286 kilometers away. However, the partial lunar eclipse will begin earlier, at 2:39 a.m., when the moon enters the Earth's penumbra, leading to a subtle darkening that will become more pronounced by 4:12 a.m. when the umbra touches the moon.
During the peak of the eclipse at 4:44 a.m., approximately 9.1% of the moon will be obscured, offering a unique visual experience as it appears to be 'nibbled away.' The eclipse will end by 5:15 a.m., with the penumbral phase concluding at 6:47 a.m. This event is not only visually stunning but also presents a chance to observe nearby celestial bodies, including the gas giant Saturn and the constellations Pisces and Aquarius.
For those in the United States, the spectacle will begin at 8:41 p.m. EST on September 17, with the partial eclipse reaching its maximum at 10:44 p.m., where the upper 8% of the moon will experience total darkness for a brief period, potentially giving it a copper or reddish hue. As the moon exits the Earth's shadow, it will continue to shine brightly, making it an unforgettable night for stargazers.
This supermoon, categorized as the Harvest Moon due to its timing with the autumn equinox, has historical significance. It was named by the Algonquin tribes, who recognized its importance during the harvest season. The term 'supermoon' was popularized in 1979 and refers to a full moon occurring when the moon is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth, resulting in a larger and brighter appearance.
In summary, the night of September 17th to 18th, 2024, promises to be a remarkable occasion for astronomy lovers to witness both a supermoon and a partial lunar eclipse, creating a spectacular display in the night sky.
