Philadelphia skywatchers, get ready for a lunar treat. The first superman of 2025—known as the Harvest Moon—will glow over the city tonight, October 6. The moon will reach its closet point to Earth in months tonight, marking the first of three supermoons expected this year.
A supermoon occurs when the full moon lines up near perigee, its closet point to Earth in its orbit. That proximity makes it appear noticeably brightly and slighter larger than a typical full moon, a subtle but striking difference that can stir wonder in every skywatcher.
Specifically, because of its proximity, the moon will appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual, giving the night sky a rare golden glow.
🌾 Why it’s called the Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon earned its name centuries ago when farmers used its light to bring in the final crops of the season.
Unlike other full moons, this one rises soon after sunset for several nights in a row, giving farmers extra light during their long autumn evenings.
⏱ Best time to watch in Philadelphia
The moon will reach its peak fullness around 11:47pm Eastern Time, but you’ll start to see it rise low on the eastern horizon shortly after sunset. If the weather cooperates, it will remain bright and visible throughout the night until dawn—best viewed from open areas like the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, or Fairmount Park.
To see the must up to date moonrise times, visit here.
🌚 What’s next in the night sky
Additionally, two or more supermoons are on the way before the end of the year, one in November and another in December.
Looking ahead to 2026, skywatchers can expect even bigger celestial shows: a lunar eclipse in March and a partial eclipse in August.