Portland, OR – Stargazers across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho are in for a dazzling sight Tuesday night as a Super Harvest Moon rises over the Pacific Northwest, appearing up to 30% brighter and larger than usual.
According to astronomers, this event combines a supermoon—when the Moon is closest to Earth in its orbit—with the Harvest Moon, the full moon closest to the autumn equinox. Together, they create one of the brightest and most colorful moons of the year.
The Moon reaches full illumination at 3:48 a.m. GMT (8:48 p.m. PDT Monday), but the best viewing will occur just after sunset Tuesday, when the moon rises low on the eastern horizon with its signature orange glow. This alignment is rare—only the 18th early-October Harvest Moon in the past 80 years, experts say.
Forecasters expect mostly clear skies across much of the region, offering excellent viewing conditions from Seattle and Portland to Boise and Coeur d’Alene. Astronomy enthusiasts are encouraged to find open spaces, coastlines, or mountain viewpoints to take in the full brilliance of the Super Harvest Moon.
How will you be watching tonight’s Supermoon? Share your best photos and viewing spots in the comments!
