The October Full Moon is coming soon. Learn the exact date so as not to miss the best time to observe our natural satellite and the sky objects surrounding it.
When is the Full Moon in October 2022?
This month, the Full Moon will occur on October 9, at 20:55 GMT. At this time, our natural satellite will lie in the constellation Pisces. It will appear full for about three days, so you’ll have plenty of time to walk under the moonlight.
What is the Hunter’s Moon?
The Hunter’s Moon is not associated with a particular month. In short, it is the Full Moon that comes right after the Harvest Moon.
Hunter’s Moon and Harvest Moon
You might recall that the Harvest Moon is the Full Moon closest to the autumnal equinox, which comes in September in the Northern Hemisphere and March in the Southern Hemisphere. The Harvest Moon may occur either in September or October (and in March or April in the Southern Hemisphere).
The Hunter’s Moon is the first Full Moon to follow the Harvest Moon. This means it may take place in October or November (in the Southern Hemisphere — in April or May).
Why is it called the Hunter’s Moon?
The farmers had traditionally finished reaping their fields under the light of the Harvest Moon. By the time of the next Full Moon, the fields were clean, so the hunters could easily see the animals prowling in search of food before the winter. Moreover, at this time of the month, the Moon rises at around dusk and sets at around dawn. The moonlight allowed the hunters to track down the prey into the late evening.
When is the Hunter’s Moon 2023?
In 2023, the Hunter’s Moon in the Northern Hemisphere will take place on October 28, at 20:23 GMT. For the Southern Hemisphere, the date is April 6, 2023, at 04:34 GMT.
October Full Moon alternative names
The October Full Moon that is closer to the autumnal equinox than the September one may be referred to as the Harvest Moon. On average, it happens every three years.
The traditional names used by the Native American tribes are the Migrating Moon (or the Travel Moon — at this time, the birds fly to warmer climes), Freezing Moon (or Ice Moon because at this time, the first frosts begin), Falling Leaves Moon and Dying Grass Moon.
The other alternative names include:
- Chinese: Kindly Moon
- Wiccan: Blood Moon
- South African: Seed Moon
- Southern Hemisphere: Egg Moon, Fish Moon, Pink Moon, Waking Moon
Why is the Hunter’s Moon red?
Sometimes the October Full Moon is called the Blood Moon, which refers to the hunting season but not to the Moon’s actual color (not to be confused with the Blood Moon that denotes a lunar eclipse). However, it might appear red or orange. While the Moon is hanging low above the horizon, its light has to pass through a thicker layer of air. As a result, the blue wavelengths get scattered by the atmosphere, leaving more of the red wavelengths, so the Moon gets an orange or reddish hue. Take our quiz to learn more about the possible colors of the Moon!
Sky objects near the Full Moon in October
- On October 8, the Moon will pass near bright Jupiter in the constellation Pisces;
- On the same day, Mercury will appear highest above the horizon;
- The Draconid meteor shower’s peak will occur on the same day as the Full Moon (the moonlight will likely outshine the meteors).
Follow the links for the exact timings and observing tips.
Next Full Moon 2022: the Blood Beaver Moon
The November Full Moon, or the Beaver Moon, will occur on November 8, 2022. It coincides with a lunar eclipse, so it can also be called Blood Moon. Check our Full Moon Calendar so as not to miss the day to observe the red Moon! We will also release an article about the Blood Beaver Moon closer to the date — stay tuned for the updates on the website and on our social media.
We wish you clear skies and successful observations!
