Thursday, 25 Apr 2024

September Full Moon will be a Harvest Moon – This is the meaning behind the name

Depending on whether you go by the meteorological or the astronomical definition of autumn – it definitely feels like the season has arrived.

And as the cold begins to creep in, skygazers are in for a treat.

A special Harvest Moon will light up the night sky as we head into autumn.

Here is everything you need to know about September 2019's Full Moon.

  • Horoscopes 2019: What's in store for your star sign this September?

What is a Harvest Moon?

A Harvest Moon is the name given to the Full Moon which occurs closest to the autumnal equinox.

It usually coincides with the September Full Moon, but can occasionally fall on the October Full Moon.

It generally occurs anywhere from two weeks before to two weeks after the equinox.

What is the meaning behind the Harvest Moon’s name?

Each Moon is given a different name to depending on the changing seasons or landscapes.

Names were picked by Native American tribes so they could keep track of time by observing the different phases of the Moon.

For example, the Strawberry Moon in May was given its name because when it arrived it meant the strawberries were ripening.

The Royal Observatory has explained the meaning behind the name, saying: “September's Full Corn Moon is so called because this is when crops are gathered at the end of the summer season.

“At this time, the Moon appears particularly bright and rises early, letting farmers continue harvesting into the night.

“This Moon is also sometimes named the Barley Moon, and it is often the nearest Full Moon to the autumnal equinox, earning the title of 'Harvest Moon’.”

And according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Harvest Moon is extra special: “The Harvest Moon isn’t like the other Moons.

“Usually, throughout the year, the Moon rises an average of about 50 minutes later each day. But near the autumnal equinox, the difference is only 30 minutes.

“Additionally, the Full Harvest Moon rises at sunset and then will rise very near sunset for several nights in a row because the difference is at a yearly minimum. “It may almost seem as if there are Full Moons multiple nights in a row!”

When is the Harvest Moon?

The September Full Moon will light up the sky early on Saturday morning, September 14.

In the UK the full moon will peak at around 5.33am BST, which is about one hours before it sets.

That is 4.33am UTC or 12.33am EST.

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