October 2024 supermoon, hunter moon : Free telescope viewing of the Year’s brightest full Moon at Lucknow university

A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with its perigee, the point in its orbit closest to Earth. (Image: Canva)

Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat this Thursday as the Hunter’s Moon, the closest supermoon of the year, graces the night sky. The Lucknow University’s astrology department, in collaboration with Indira Gandhi Planetarium and UP Amateur Astronomers’ Club, will set up four telescopes at Abhinav Gupta Bhawan for public viewing. The event will be free of charge, offering visitors a chance to witness the supermoon and planets.

What is a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with its perigee, the point in its orbit closest to Earth. Sumit Kumar Shrivastava, a scientific officer at the Council of Science and Technology, explained that during this phase, the moon appears around 40% larger and 30% brighter than usual. The term "supermoon" was first coined in 1979 by astronomer Richard Nolle, and it applies to both full and new moons.

“The moon will be closest to Earth at 11:55 p.m. on Thursday, about 351,519 kilometers away,” said Shrivastava. “In contrast, during its apogee, or farthest point, the distance will extend to 406,161 kilometers on October 30.”

Why is it Called the Hunter’s Moon?
The October full moon is traditionally called the Hunter’s Moon because hunters in the past used its bright light to stockpile food for the winter. Thursday’s supermoon will be the third of four this year, with the final one expected on November 15.

Locals and astronomy enthusiasts are encouraged to attend the event at Lucknow University to experience the rare spectacle firsthand.