First supermoon of 2025 rises tonight: Know when, where, and how to watch Harvest Moon on October 6

Harvest Moon on October 6. (Image: Canva)

The first supermoon of 2025, also known as the Harvest Moon, will rise on October 6. This will provide a dazzling display in the night sky. The full moon nearest to the autumn equinox is called the Harvest Moon, a phenomenon that has long indicated a change of seasons. The Moon will become full at 11:48 PM EDT on October 6 and 03:48 GMT on October 7.

Why It’s Called the Harvest Supermoon? 

Traditionally, the Harvest Moon enabled farmers to work late into the night harvesting crops, aided by the bright light. This year's full moon is also a supermoon, which occurs when the Moon is at perigee or the closest point to the Earth.

Its distance from the Earth will make it appear 30% bigger than normal and also about 30% brighter bright, which certainly creates a spectacle for all observers around the world.

Best Time and Place to Watch

The best time to venture outside and enjoy the harvest supermoon will be right after sunset and looking toward the eastern horizon. As the supermoon rises above the horizon, it will likely appear orange or gold as the atmosphere will be scattering the light. Observers in areas with dark skies free from all city lights should have the best views. The last October Harvest Moon was in 2020, and the next will appear in 2028.

Bonus Sight: Saturn Appears

To enhance the excitement of the night sky, Saturn will rise nearby, appearing approximately 15 degrees to the upper right of the Moon. Views through a small telescope will show the rings of Saturn along with the Supermoon.

Capture the Perfect Shot

Astrophotographers should be ready to use the moon illusion, whereby the Moon appears largest when on or near the horizon. In order to capture significant detail, stargazers should use a tripod with a telephoto lens.