Hunter’s Moon 2024: How and when to see this year’s brightest supermoon in Melbourne

Melbourne skies will be lit up by a radiant supermoon, the Hunter’s Moon, this week. Here’s everything you need to know about this celestial phenomenon.

Melbourne skies will be lit up by a radiant supermoon this week.

Due to its proximity to Earth, the Hunter’s Moon will appear larger and brighter than other supermoons.

Here’s everything you need to know about this celestial phenomenon.

This year’s Harvest Moon. Picture: Jonathan Ng

When can you see the supermoon?

The Hunter’s Moon will be in the sky this Thursday, October 17th. The supermoon will be visible to the naked eye at 10:26pm AEDT.

A large moon will appear in the sky for three days before and after the supermoon, from Tuesday night to Friday.

Best vantage points in Melbourne

Locations with unobstructed views of the eastern horizon and little light pollution are key for optimal viewing.

Expected weather forecast

The Bureau of Meterology is forecasting a partly cloudy day on Thursday with a top of 26C for Melbourne.

There’s a very high chance of showers, most likely in the late afternoon and evening and the chance of a thunderstorm.
Winds will blow north to northeasterly 20 to 30km/h and tend east to northeasterly 15 to 25km/h in the afternoon and evening.

What is the Hunter’s Moon?

The name ‘Hunter’s Moon’ stems from the northern hemisphere, when traditionally people spent October preparing for winter by hunting.

How often does it occur?

The Hunter’s Moon appears annually, typically towards the beginning of October.

What’s the difference between the Hunter’s Moon and the Harvest Moon?

The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the September equinox, and the Hunter’s Moon is the first full moon that follows it.

What is a supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth, less than 360,000 kilometres away, known as the perigee.

Fun Facts:

•The Hunter’s Moon is referred to by multiple names: Drying Rice Moon, Sanguine Moon, Falling Leaves Moon and Pagan Blood Moon.

•The next supermoon following the Hunter’s Moon will be on November 15.