Exciting Skywatching Event Coming to Kansas City!
Hey Kansas City! We’ve got some exciting news for the upcoming days that you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars for Monday, September 22, because this week’s full moon is none other than the Harvest Moon, and there’s a whole lot to look forward to!
What’s a Harvest Moon?
You might be wondering, what exactly is a Harvest Moon? Well, it’s the name given to the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox—when day and night are nearly the same length. This year, the equinox falls on Sunday, September 22. It’s a time of transition, where the warm days of summer fade into the crispness of fall. And what better way to welcome this change than by soaking in the beauty of a striking moon?
Supermoon Alert!
This month’s Harvest Moon isn’t just your average full moon; it’s also a supermoon! That means it’s positioned slightly closer to Earth during its orbit, making it appear a tad larger and brighter than usual. The moon will rise in Kansas City at 7:21 PM, right as the sun dips below the horizon. Talk about timing!
Peak Viewing Times
So when’s the best time to check it out? The peak brightness of the super Harvest Moon is set for 9:34 PM, which means you’ve got the perfect window to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable night of stargazing and moonlit walks. You don’t need any fancy gadgets—just your eyes to enjoy this celestial spectacle!
A Little Extra Excitement: Partial Lunar Eclipse
But wait, there’s more! This month’s full moon will also be graced by a partial lunar eclipse. During the eclipse, a small part of the Earth’s shadow will cover about 8% of the moon. While it might not be the most visible event to the naked eye, you could spot a slight shadow on the upper left corner of the moon if you look closely. For a better view, consider using a telescope; the eclipse will peak at 9:44 PM, just ten minutes after the full moon reaches its brightest!
Weather Considerations
No stargazing plan would be complete without considering the weather. It’s best to check the latest weather forecast to ensure that you have clear skies for optimal viewing of this spectacular moon and eclipse. You’ll want to keep an eye on any cloud cover that could interfere with your viewing experience.
Getting Ready for Autumn
As we get ready to embrace autumn, let’s not forget to enjoy the little moments brought by nature. Watching the moon rise can be a beautiful reminder of the changing seasons, and what better way to celebrate than with a cozy gathering under the stars?
Dress Up Your View!
Feeling festive? This fall season is the perfect time to decorate your outdoor space! While you get in the mood for Halloween, consider dressing up your favorite drinking mugs with seasonal decorations, or even some autumn-themed throw pillows for your outdoor seating. After all, sipping pumpkin spice lattes while gazing at the moon is a must!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, Kansas City! The Harvest Moon, a supermoon, and a partial lunar eclipse all rolled into one spectacular night! Don’t forget to grab your loved ones, head outside, and enjoy the beauty of the moon on Monday evening. Happy moon gazing!
