Do you enjoy gazing at the sky, the stars, and the celestial bodies above us? Good news:on September 26, a particularly dazzling full moon will be visible in metropolitan France. Known as the Harvest Moon, it sometimes takes on a delicate orange hue, and you don’t need any special equipment to see it!
An orange full moon visible to the naked eye
For lovers of astronomical phenomena, this is an event not to be missed. The September full moon will reach its peak on September 26, around 6:49 p.m. in Paris. Known as the Harvest Moon, it occurs closest to the fall equinox. You’ll be able to admire a particularly bright moon, tinged with a faint coppery-orange hue due to the atmosphere.
In addition to this unique feature, the Harvest Moon is also known for remaining bright for several nights in a row. Before its peak on September 26, you’ll be able to observe it on the night of the 25th as well as on the night of the 27th! Another notable feature—and by no means the least—is that this moon rises earlier than usual, shifting from an average of 50 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes, for three nights in a row. So don’t be surprised if you see the moon clearly visible shortly after sunset.
To see it, there’s no secret: just avoid light pollution and look toward the east or northeast. If you live downtown, near well-lit streets, you’ll have a harder time seeing it than if you’re out in the countryside or in a park.