Get ready to look up — because the night sky over Australia is about to put on a breathtaking show. On Tuesday evening, Australians will witness the first supermoon of the season, known as the Harvest Moon, and it’s expected to be larger, brighter, and closer than usual.
At Brackly News, we’re all about experiencing the wonders of science, nature, and culture — and tonight’s moonrise checks all three boxes.
What Is a Supermoon — and Why Is This One Special?
A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with its closest point to Earth in its orbit. This makes the moon appear about 6% larger and up to 30% brighter than a typical full moon, even though the size difference may be subtle to the naked eye.
Tonight’s supermoon also carries the name “Harvest Moon,” a term that comes from old farming traditions in the Northern Hemisphere, where the bright moonlight gave farmers extra hours to bring in crops after sunset.
While the term originates in the northern autumn, Aussies are actually enjoying spring, making this an unusual but beautiful seasonal crossover. You can explore other cultural influences in nature through Brackly’s deep dive into global traditions.
Best Time and Place to Watch in Australia
Timing is everything with this lunar event. According to Dr Brad Tucker from ANU, the best time to see the supermoon is:
- Just after sunset (look east as the sun sets in the west)
- Or between 9pm and 1am, when the moon is high and glowing at its brightest
Why does it look so big at moonrise? It’s a combination of optical illusions and atmospheric effects, making the moon appear massive when it’s low on the horizon. As it rises, the size “shrinks” — but the brightness increases.
And there’s a bonus: Saturn will also be visible nearby, glowing high in the night sky. So this is a perfect night for backyard stargazing.
When Are the Next Supermoons?
Can’t make tonight’s celestial event? You’re in luck.
There are three more supermoons coming up:
- 5 November 2025
- 4 December 2025
- 2 January 2026
And mark your calendars for a total lunar eclipse (a “blood moon”) visible across Australia in March 2026. If you’re into planning ahead for skywatching events, check out NASA’s moon phases calendar for future highlights.
Why So Many Supermoons in a Row?
It all comes down to the moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth. Because it’s not a perfect circle, there are times the moon swings closer, creating conditions for multiple supermoons in quick succession.
Dr Rebecca Allen from Swinburne University likens it to a gentle wobble, like a spinning top. This orbital rhythm is what gives us recurring patterns — and stunning spectacles like tonight’s harvest moon.
For more about the science behind Earth’s cosmic relationships, visit Brackly’s space and science section.
Stargazing Tips from Brackly News
To make the most of this lunar moment, here are a few quick tips:
🌕 Get outside early – Head out just before sunset for the full “moonrise illusion”
🔭 Use binoculars – Even a basic pair can enhance moon detail
📱 Download a stargazing app – Apps like SkyView or Stellarium help you spot Saturn and other celestial bodies
🌌 Avoid city lights – The darker your sky, the better your view
Tonight’s supermoon is more than just a pretty sky — it’s a reminder of the rhythms of nature that connect us all, no matter the hemisphere or season. Whether you’re a casual observer or a passionate stargazer, this is a can’t-miss event.
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Brackly News will continue to bring you the most engaging moments from above and beyond — so stay tuned for more updates from the stars!
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