When to see the biggest supermoon of the year in Arizona tonight

It’s been a busy month for celestial spectacles, including the return of the Northern Lights and a once-in-a-lifetime comet. Now, skywatchers can see the biggest supermoon of the year.

October’s full moon will occur on Thursday night and will be a supermoon, a phenomenon where the Earth’s natural satellite is at its closest point to our planet, appearing significantly larger and more luminous than usual.

It’s the third and largest supermoon of 2024, coinciding with the appearance of Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which is currently visible in the western skies just after sunset each night in October.

Here are all the details about how and when to see October’s supermoon over Arizona on Thursday evening.

What day is the supermoon?

The supermoon will occur on Thursday evening, Oct. 17.

What time is the supermoon on Thursday?

According to Time and Date, the moon will rise in Arizona at 6:01 p.m. on Thursday night. It will reach its highest point early on Friday at 1:05 a.m.

Where should you look?

The moon will rise in the eastern/northeastern sky.

What is a supermoon?

A supermoon takes place when a full moon coincides with the moon's closest approach to Earth in its orbit. As a result, the moon looks noticeably larger and brighter in the sky.

How bright is October’s supermoon?

The moon will be at 98.8% illumination, according to Time and Date. In other words, it will be very visible.

Why is October’s moon also called the Hunter’s Moon?

October's full moon signaled the time for hunters to gather meat for the winter and take advantage of the moonlight to track game. Traditionally, this moon follows the Harvest Moon in September, which illuminated the skies just as the fields are cleared, making it easier to spot animals in the open.

What will viewing conditions be like?

The forecast for Thursday night calls for clear skies, so there should be little (if any) clouds obscuring your view of the moon.

Do you need a telescope or binoculars to see the supermoon?

No, unless you want to use a telescope or binoculars for a closer view of the moon’s features and landscape.

Why does the moon seem larger on the horizon?

Your brain is essentially playing tricks on you, resulting in what’s called the “moon illusion.”

When can I see Comet A3 tonight?

Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS will be visible approximately 45 minutes after sunset. Look in the western/southwestern skies approximately 10 degrees above the horizon.