Tue Sep 17 05:49:09 UTC 2024: ## Super Harvest Moon and Partial Lunar Eclipse Grace Skies, But India Misses Out

Sky enthusiasts worldwide will witness a unique celestial spectacle tonight – a super harvest moon coinciding with a partial lunar eclipse. While the event will illuminate the skies of Western Asia, North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Antarctica, India will unfortunately miss out as the moon will be below the horizon during the eclipse.

The super harvest moon, which appears slightly larger than usual due to its proximity to Earth, will be partially eclipsed, creating a visually stunning sight. The eclipse will begin at 8:41 pm EDT (6:11 am IST) on Tuesday, with the peak occurring at 10:44 pm EDT (8:14 am IST).

The term “supermoon” was coined in 1979 by astrologer Richard Nolle, referring to a new or full moon that occurs when the moon is within 90% of its closest point to Earth. Meanwhile, the September full moon is traditionally known as the “harvest moon,” marking the beginning of corn harvest season.

NASA has noted that the eclipse will be a partial one, with only 8% of the moon’s surface entering the Earth’s full shadow. The slight dimming caused by the partial shadow may be difficult to notice until the moon begins to enter the full shadow.

This will be the second of four consecutive supermoons, with the upcoming full moon in October being the closest to Earth this year.

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