Get ready to look up! October’s full moon will appear bigger and brighter tonight as the first supermoon of 2025 rises — no telescope required.
What Is a Supermoon?
A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest point to Earth (called perigee) in its elliptical orbit. This makes the moon appear larger and brighter in the night sky than usual.
According to NASA, a supermoon can look:
- Up to 14% larger
- Up to 30% brighter
than the faintest full moon of the year.
When to See the Supermoon
- Date: Tonight — Monday, October 6, 2025
- Best Time to Watch: Just after moonrise or just before moonset
- Visible From: Worldwide, if weather permits
No binoculars or telescopes are necessary — just a clear view of the sky!
“Everyone in the world can see a supermoon without special equipment if clear skies permit,” said Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.
Why It Looks Bigger
While the actual change in size is relatively small, the moon illusion can make it seem dramatically larger when it’s near the horizon. This illusion, combined with its closer distance of about 224,600 miles (361,459 kilometers) from Earth, creates the signature supermoon glow.
Is It Rare?
Not really — supermoons occur a few times each year, but not all are visible worldwide or under ideal conditions. What makes this one special is that it’s the first of three supermoons in 2025, kicking off a season of celestial events.
“It’s not really very unusual,” said Pitts, “but it’s always beautiful.”
What’s Next in the Sky?
After tonight’s lunar show, stargazers can look forward to:
Upcoming Supermoons:
- November 2025 — Closest and largest supermoon of the year
- December 2025 — Final supermoon of the year
2026 Lunar Eclipses:
- March 2026 — Total lunar eclipse visible across North America, Asia, and Australia
- August 2026 — Partial eclipse over the Americas, Africa, and Europe
Tips for Viewing and Photographing
- Watch early: Right after moonrise for a dramatic horizon view
- Use landmarks: Trees or buildings enhance the sense of scale
- Try smartphone night mode: Great for basic photography
- Stay away from city lights: Light pollution dims the view
Final Thoughts
Tonight’s October supermoon is a simple but awe-inspiring skywatching event that you can enjoy with the naked eye. Whether you’re an astronomy fan or just want a stunning night-sky photo, don’t miss this bright start to the 2025 celestial season.
