Skywatchers worldwide are in for a treat as the first supermoon of 2025 graces the night sky on Monday, appearing slightly larger and brighter than a typical full moon. Occurring when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, this celestial event will see the moon positioned approximately 224,600 miles (361,459 kilometres) from our planet. According to NASA, this proximity can make the moon appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than the year's faintest full moon, offering a subtle yet captivating spectacle for those with clear skies.

The October supermoon marks the start of a trio this year, with even closer approaches expected in November and December. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, noted that while supermoons occur several times annually, their visual impact can be hard to notice without context. “If you go out and just look at the moon when it’s very high in the sky, there is nothing relative to it to give you an idea of how big it looks,” Pitts explained. No special equipment is needed to enjoy the event, making it accessible to everyone, weather permitting.

Supermoons happen when a full moon coincides with the moon’s perigee, its nearest point to Earth, which varies due to its oval-shaped orbit. This phenomenon, while not rare, occasionally aligns with other astronomical events like lunar eclipses, adding to its allure. The upcoming November supermoon will be the closest of 2025, promising an even more striking display. Looking ahead, 2026 will bring two lunar eclipses—a total eclipse in March visible across North America, Asia, and Australia, and a partial one in August spanning the Americas, Africa, and Europe.

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For optimal viewing, NASA recommends observing the moon near the horizon, where nearby objects like trees or buildings can enhance the perception of its size due to the “moon illusion”. Urban light pollution may dim the effect, so rural or darker locations are ideal. As the first of three supermoons this year, Monday’s event sets the stage for a series of celestial highlights, inviting enthusiasts to marvel at the moon’s fleeting but radiant grandeur.

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