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When is the next full moon? October 2024 will have a hunter supermoon
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When is the next full moon? October 2024 will have a hunter supermoon

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Stay tuned to Iowa because a full moon is coming, just a week after Iowans had a chance to see the Northern Lights.

This week’s Hunter Moon is no ordinary full moon either. It is also a supermoon. This is the time when you need to go outside and look up.

More: When is the comet visible? Tips for seeing the 80,000-year-old Tsuchinshan-ATLAS comet

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon is Thursday, October 17. Plan to wake up early as maximum illumination is at 6:26 am, depending on time and date.

Why is it called the Hunter’s Moon?

The full moon in October is called the hunter’s moon because of the season in which it occurs. Historically, hunters began gathering and storing food for the winter months, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

“Many moons ago, Indians called this bright moon for obvious reasons,” the almanac said. “The leaves are falling from the trees, the deer have been fattened and it’s time to stock up on meat for the long winter ahead.”

What is a supermoon?

According to NASA, a supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth while it is a full moon. This means that the moon is slightly brighter and larger than a regular full moon.

What is the forecast for the full moon in Des Moines?

Skies are expected to be clear on Thursday evening, creating ideal conditions for sky viewing. According to the National Weather Services, evening temperatures should be in the low 50s.

More: Missed the Northern Lights? Here’s a gallery from Thursday and tips for viewing Friday

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.