The first of four supermoons this year rose on Monday, bringing a notable celestial event to the night sky. according to the Independent. Although a supermoon doesn’t grow in size, it appears slightly larger due to its closer proximity to Earth, though this change is often subtle.
September’s supermoon will also coincide with a partial lunar eclipse, enhancing the celestial display. The supermoon in October will be the closest of the year, while November’s event will conclude the series.
The term “supermoon” is more of a popular descriptor than a scientific one, referring to a full moon that occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit. This phenomenon generally occurs three to four times a year due to the moon’s shifting orbit.
According to the AP, Monday’s supermoon was approximately 224,917 miles (361,970 kilometers) from Earth. The next supermoon, occurring on the night of September 17 into the following morning, will be nearly 3,000 miles (4,484 kilometers) closer.
This event will also feature a partial lunar eclipse, visible across much of the Americas, Africa, and Europe, where Earth’s shadow will create a subtle “bite” on the moon.
The October supermoon will be the closest of the year at 222,055 miles (357,364 kilometers) from Earth, followed by November’s supermoon at 224,853 miles (361,867 kilometers).
While the differences in distance are minor and often imperceptible to the naked eye, the supermoon can be up to 30% brighter than an average full moon.