Not only will Seattle be treated to the brightest comet of the century this weekend, but we may also get to see the brightest supermoon of the year tonight!
October’s Hunter’s Moon will be at its peak on Thursday, October 17. This is the closest and therefore brightest supermoon that we’ll see this year—if Seattle’s cloudy skies will cooperate.
Read on for all the details!
When to look for the full Hunter’s Moon?
October’s full moon will be at peak illumination at 4:26 a.m. (PST) on Thursday October 17. Look for it as it rises above the horizon after the sun sets on Thursday.
Why is it called the Hunter’s Moon?
The name Hunter’s Moon was first used in 1710, according to The Farmer’s Almanac. Traditionally it was known as a cue for hunters to start stocking up for winter, similar to the Harvest Moon.
The Hunter’s Moon, along with the Harvest Moon, is tied to the autumnal equinox. Rather than being tied to a specific month like most full moons, the Hunter’s Moon is whichever full moon follows the Harvest Moon. That means it sometimes happens in November instead of October!
What makes this a supermoon?
A supermoon is “when the full moon coincides with the moon being at the point in its orbit within 90% of its closest approach to Earth,” according to Space.com. A supermoon will appear fuller and brighter than usual, and this October’s supermoon will be the brightest of the year since it will be closest to Earth.
It will also have a darker yellow or even an orange tint, making it perfect for all the spooky happenings in Seattle this October.
What are the chances of seeing the moon in Seattle?
Unfortunately, the sky is expected to be overcast in Seattle on Thursday night. Fingers crossed that the clouds move aside and allow us a glimpse of the Hunter’s supermoon!
If you miss seeing the supermoon, we have just the thing to cheer you up. Krispy Kreme is offering a fun special today to celebrate the astronomical event. You can get The Supermoon Dozen, which features a mix of half glazed and half Hunter Supermoon doughnuts. You can also purchase the limited-time Hunter Supermoon doughnut individually. It’s filled with their Cookies & Kreme filling and dipped in yellow icing.